Conventional and recent diagnostic aids in tuberculous lymphadenitis: A brief overview

Abstract

One of the most common form of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is peripheral tuberculous lymphadenitis and accounts for 20-40% of the cases. Tuberculous lymphadenitis has a gender and age predilection (usually seen in young females). It is usually bilateral in presentation and is noncontagious. Recent upsurge in HIV coinfection has challenged the diagnosis and management of TB and of associated lymphadenopathy. In the endemic areas, tuberculous lymphadenitis remains an important and essential differential diagnosis in patients presenting with cervical swellings. A timely and accurate diagnosis is mandatory to overcome this public health threat. Interdisciplinary involvement of varied medical and dental professionals enhances the possibility of an effective and timely diagnosis of this condition.