Cervical lymphadenopathy secondary to atypical mycobacteria in children

Abstract

Non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections usually present as an enlarged lymph node in the neck of a non-immunocompromised child. The differential diagnosis includes bacterial adenitis, malignant disease and tuberculosis. The definitive diagnosis relies upon isolating the organisms in culture. The treatment is complete surgical excision with, or without, anti-tuberculous chemotherapy. Ten cases of NTM infections are presented with a discussion of the aetiology and treatment of this condition.