Children
Complete Surgical Excision of Cervicofacial Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Lymphadenitis in Children
By Luca Oscar Redaelli de Zinis, Tullia Bazzana, Sara Migliorati and 2 others.
Abstract
Background
Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) cervical lymphadenitis is an uncommon but clinically challenging pediatric condition that often mimics other causes of neck masses and is therefore frequently misdiagnosed or mistreated. This study aimed to describe the diagnostic work-up, surgical management, complications, and outcomes of complete surgical excision in children with cervicofacial necrotizing granulomatous lymphadenitis consistent with NTM disease.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 70 children (48 girls and 22 boys; mean age, 4 years) who underwent surgery between 2010 and 2023. Clinical presentation, diagnostic work-up, microbiological findings, extent of surgery, follow-up, and outcomes were reviewed.