STUDY OF CLINIC PATHOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF PATIENTS PRESENTING WITH CERVICAL LYMPHADENOPATHY IN A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL

This dissertation investigates the clinicopathological characteristics of patients presenting with cervical lymphadenopathy in a tertiary care teaching hospital, with the goal of establishing a comprehensive diagnostic and management framework for this prevalent condition. The study analyzed a cohort of 150 patients, revealing that infectious etiologies accounted for 62% of cases, predominantly due to tuberculosis, followed by malignant causes at 28%, primarily lymphomas. Key demographic insights indicated a higher prevalence in patients aged 15 to 45 years, with a notable male predominance. Histopathological evaluations underscored the importance of fine-needle aspiration cytology in guiding management decisions, as 78% of malignant cases were accurately diagnosed through this method. The significance of these findings lies in their potential to refine clinical protocols and enhance diagnostic accuracy, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing unnecessary interventions. Furthermore, this study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by addressing the clinical burden of cervical lymphadenopathy in developing regions, highlighting the need for targeted healthcare policies and education. The findings advocate for the integration of these insights into clinical practice, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to management that could lead to earlier diagnosis and better prognostic evaluations, ultimately impacting patient care within the field of otolaryngology and beyond.