INFECTIOUS GRANULOMATOUS DISEASES OF THE HEAD AND NECK

Infectious granulomatous diseases of the head and neck are very important entities that can mimic or hide malignant tumors and a wide variety of diseases. The frequency of these diseases is increasing with the wider use of immunosuppressive drugs and the increasing incidence of AIDS. The diagnosis is simple, and does not require sophisticated diagnostic procedures, but a high index of suspicion is necessary. Although other studies are helpful to suggest the diagnosis or define the extent of the disease, the microbiological and histopathological analyses are the most specific studies for the diagnosis. The therapy is usually combined: medical and surgical. The medical therapy involves treatment for a long period of time, usually between 3 and 6 months. The follow-up should be kept for at least 3 years. The tendency of some of these diseases to relapse makes the therapy discouraging, and some patients will need multiple therapies throughout their life. An accurate diagnosis and specific therapy for adequate amount of time is the best way to achieve a complete cure or at least a better chance for a good prognosis. © 1993.