Etiological study of generalized lymphadenopathy in a tertiary care hospital

Background: This study was done to know about the clinical biochemical as well as radiological profile of patients presented as generalized lymphadenopathy in a tertiary care centre and to know the different causes of generalized lymphadenopathy.Methods: 116 patients of generalized lymphadenopathy were included this study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Detailed history, physical examination and relevant systemic examination including detailed examination of lympho-reticular system were done as per a structured proforma and necessary lab investigations were done for confirming diagnosis.Results: Among 116 patients of generalized lymphadenopathy 59.5% were non-malignant causes where 40.5% diagnosed as malignant causes. Among them tuberculosis consist of 39 (33.6%), NHL 18 (15.5%), reactive lymphadenopathy 16 (13.8%), CLL and HD 8 (6.9%) each, ALL 7 (6%), SLE 5(4.3%), Kikuchi’s disease 4 (3.4%), AML and RA 3 (2.6%) each and castleman’s disease, phenytoin lymphadenopathy, metastatic lung and breast carcinoma 1 (0.9%) each. Cervical groups of lymph nodes were most commonly involved 86 patients (74.1%) followed by axillary groups 73 patients (62.9%). Lymph nodes size <1.5cm were mainly due to reactive causes where size >1.5cm were due to malignant and non-malignant granulomatous cases. FNAC give definite diagnosis 80.9% malignant cases where 76.8% in non-malignant cases. HPE shown definite diagnosis in 100% cases both malignant and non-malignant diseases.Conclusions: Tuberculosis is most common cause of generalized lymphadenopathy followed by lymphoma. And reactive lymphadenitis is also an important consideration.