What causes cervical lymphadenopathy?

Cervical lymphadenopathy is mainly caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and its risk factors include low immunity, poor environmental hygiene, nutritional deficiencies and other underlying diseases. Common causes include genetic susceptibility, infection transmission, physical factors and other diseases.

1Genetic factors and susceptibility

Although cervical lymphadenopathy is not a genetic disease, the function of an individual's immune system is affected by genetic genes. If someone in the family has a history of tuberculosis, certain physical conditions may be more susceptible to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. People with a family history of tuberculosis should pay special attention to regular screening and health management, especially when living in areas with a high incidence of tuberculosis.

2 Transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

The most common cause of cervical lymphadenopathy is infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Usually, mycobacteria invade the body from the respiratory tract, such as tuberculosis infection or skin wounds, and then spread to the lymph nodes with blood or lymph, causing cervical lymphadenopathy. This transmission is more common in people who have close contact with infectious tuberculosis patients, such as family members or cohabitants. Maintaining hygienic habits and avoiding close contact with patients are the key to preventing this contamination transmission.

3. Weak immune system and nutritional deficiencies

People with low immunity, such as the elderly, children, or those with chronic diseases such as AIDS and diabetes, are more susceptible to infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Malnutrition, such as long-term deficiency of protein and vitamins, can also weaken the body's resistance to infection and increase the risk of lymph node tuberculosis. You can improve your physical fitness by consuming protein-rich meat, beans, and vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits on a daily basis.

4 Trauma, infection or other disease causes

Tuberculosis of cervical lymph nodes may also be related to bacterial infection after trauma. If there is an open wound on the neck and it is not cleaned and disinfected in time, the environment around the cells is more likely to become a breeding ground for bacteria. Patients with other infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and immune diseases may also have cervical lymph node lesions due to bacterial circulation in their bodies.

The treatment of cervical lymph node tuberculosis mainly includes drug therapy and surgical drainage. The standard anti-tuberculosis treatment is a combination of anti-tuberculosis drugs, which generally lasts at least 6-9 months. Commonly used drug combinations include isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, etc. The doctor will formulate the best treatment plan based on the patient's specific situation; for cases where drugs are ineffective or abscesses occur, surgical removal of the diseased lymph nodes or drainage of pus may also be necessary.

After the cause is identified, standardized treatment should be carried out as soon as possible to prevent the disease from further developing. In daily life, paying attention to maintaining a balanced nutrition, improving immunity, and avoiding close contact with tuberculosis patients can help prevent the occurrence of cervical lymphadenopathy. If you find that your neck is continuously swollen or painful, you should go to the hospital as soon as possible to get a clear diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment.