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Lymphadenitis Colli – Cervical Lymph Node Inflammation

Lymphadenitis colli is an inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes, most commonly caused by infections. It presents with swelling and pain in the neck area.

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Things worth knowing about "Lymphadenitis Colli"

Lymphadenitis colli is an inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes, most commonly caused by infections. It presents with swelling and pain in the neck area.

What is Lymphadenitis Colli?

Lymphadenitis colli refers to the inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck region. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs of the immune system distributed along the lymphatic vessels. They play a key role in filtering pathogens and activating immune responses. When these nodes become inflamed, they swell and may become tender or painful. The condition is common across all age groups, particularly in children.

Causes

The most frequent cause of lymphadenitis colli is an infection in the head and neck region. Both bacterial and viral origins are distinguished:

Bacterial causes: Streptococci, Staphylococci, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (in the tuberculous form)
Viral causes: Epstein-Barr virus (infectious mononucleosis), Adenoviruses, Cytomegalovirus
Other causes: Dental infections, tonsillitis, otitis media, and in rarer cases, malignant tumors or autoimmune conditions

Symptoms

The symptoms of lymphadenitis colli can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity. Common signs include:

Visibly swollen and palpable lymph nodes in the neck
Tenderness or spontaneous pain over the affected lymph nodes
Redness and warmth of the overlying skin (particularly in bacterial cases)
General malaise, fatigue, and weakness
Fever, especially with bacterial infections
In severe cases: formation of an abscess (a collection of pus within the lymph node)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually established through a physical examination, during which the physician palpates the lymph nodes and evaluates their size, consistency, and tenderness. Further diagnostic steps may include:

Blood tests: Measurement of inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) and a complete blood count
Ultrasound (sonography): Imaging to assess the size and internal structure of the lymph nodes
Throat or wound swabs: To identify the responsible bacteria or viruses
Biopsy: Tissue sampling for histopathological analysis when the cause remains unclear or swelling persists, to rule out malignancy
Imaging (CT/MRI): In cases of suspected deep-space infections or complications

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation:

Bacterial Lymphadenitis Colli

Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics, commonly penicillin or amoxicillin. If an abscess has formed, surgical incision and drainage may be required. Treating the primary source of infection — such as tonsillitis or a dental abscess — is equally important.

Viral Lymphadenitis Colli

Viral forms typically resolve on their own. Treatment is symptomatic and includes pain-relieving and fever-reducing medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Adequate rest and hydration support recovery.

Tuberculous Lymphadenitis Colli

When mycobacteria are involved, a specific combination regimen of antitubercular drugs over several months is required, following established tuberculosis treatment guidelines.

When to See a Doctor

Medical attention should be sought promptly if neck lymph node swelling persists for more than two weeks, is accompanied by fever, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats. These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires further investigation.

References

World Health Organization (WHO): Lymphadenopathy and cervical lymph node disease guidelines. www.who.int
Flint P.W. et al.: Cummings Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. 7th Edition, Elsevier, Philadelphia, 2021.
Twist C.J., Link M.P.: Assessment of lymphadenopathy in children. In: Pediatric Clinics of North America, 2002; 49(5): 1009-1025.

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