Lymph Node Tuberculosis in Children: Understanding Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant public health concern, and in children, it often manifests as lymph node tuberculosis, also known as tuberculous lymphadenitis. This form of TB primarily affects the lymph nodes, causing swelling and other symptoms. Understanding its signs and seeking timely medical care are essential for effective management. This section deals with lymphonode tuberculosis with a focus on its symptoms, investigations and treatment.

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What is Lymph Node Tuberculosis?

Lymph node tuberculosis is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lymph nodes. It is the most common form of extrapulmonary TB in children, typically involving cervical (neck) lymph nodes.

Symptoms of Lymph Node Tuberculosis in Children

The most noticeable symptom is enlarged lymph nodes for a period of more than 2-3 weeks, often in the neck. Other symptoms include:

Swelling that may be painless or tender.
Nodes that feel firm and may be matted together.
Skin changes over the affected area, including redness or discoloration.
Fever, fatigue, and weight loss in some cases.
Rarely, lymph nodes become very large and can become soft when pus forms inside.
In rare cases they can burst and form a tract with the skin known as a sinus.

Causes and Risk Factors

Exposure to TB: Close contact with someone who has active tuberculosis.
Weakened Immune System: Children with compromised immunity are more vulnerable.
Malnutrition: Poor nutrition increases susceptibility to infections like TB.

Diagnosing Lymph Node Tuberculosis

A pediatric pulmonologist or tuberculosis specialist uses various methods to confirm the diagnosis:

Physical Examination: To assess the size, consistency, and location of enlarged lymph nodes.
Imaging: Chest X-rays or ultrasound to assess the extent of the infection.
Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC): Extracting lymph node fluid for microscopic analysis or cytopathology. The FNAC sample can also be subjected to a GeneXpert Test (A rapid molecular test to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis and drug resistance).
Lymph Node Biopsy: In rare cases we might have to consider a biopsy of the lymph nodes for detailed analysis. It is required to rule out other rare causes of lymph node enlargement.

Treatment of Lymph Node Tuberculosis

Anti-Tuberculosis Therapy (ATT): A combination of medications over 6 months,
Surgical Drainage: In rare cases, when lymph nodes are severely infected or abscesses form.
Nutritional Support: Ensuring adequate nutrition to boost immunity and aid recovery.

Prognosis

With timely diagnosis and proper treatment, lymph node tuberculosis in children is usually curable. Ensuring adherence to the prescribed medication regimen is key to a full recovery.

Lymph node tuberculosis in children is the most common extrapulmonary form of tuberculosis. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and adherence to treatment is important for a complete recovery. Your child is suffering from enlarged lymph nodes or lymph node tuberculosis get in touch with the pediatric pulmonologist or tuberculosis expert for proper guidance and treatment.
Conclusion

Lymph Node Tuberculosis