[Diagnosis of peripheral tuberculous lymphadenitis in Tunisia].

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate the contribution of microbiology, cytology, and anatomopathology in 50 cases of peripheral tuberculous lymphadenitis.

METHODOLOGY

Our patients underwent bacteriological tests and cytology and/or histopathology for lymphadenitis.

RESULTS

Ziehl-Neelsen stains and cultures were positive in only 29.7% and 10.8% of cases respectively. The diagnosis was confirmed by cytology in 31.3% of cases (10/32) and by histology in 58.6% of cases (27/46). Granulomas were observed in 46.8% (15/32) of needle aspirates and 76% (35/46) of surgical biopsies.

CONCLUSION

Our study reveals a weak contribution of conventional microbiological techniques. Cytology remains the procedure of choice in endemic countries. Excisional biopsy may be performed in case of doubt.