infectious diseases
Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculous lymphadenitis
Tuberculous lymphadenitis (scrofula) typically involves the lymph nodes in the posterior cervical and supraclavicular chains. Infection in these areas is thought to be due to contiguous spread from intrathoracic lymphatics or from infection in the tonsils and adenoids. Mediastinal lymph nodes are also commonly enlarged as a part of primary pulmonary disease. Cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis is characterized by progressive swelling of the affected nodes. In advanced cases, nodes may become inflamed and tender; the overlying skin may break down, resulting in a draining fistula. 