HISTOPATHOLOGICAL SPECTRUM OF LYMPH NODE LESIONS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Lymph node lesions encompass a wide spectrum of infectious, reactive, and neoplastic conditions. Understanding their histopathological profile in relation to demographic and anatomical factors is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management. Objectives: 1] To evaluate the histopathological spectrum of lymph node lesions in a tertiary care centre in the Hubballi–Dharwad region. 2] To analyse the correlation of these lesions with age, gender, and site of involvement. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted in the Department of Pathology, KMCRI Hubballi, from January 2024 to June 2025. A total of 62 lymph node lesions were evaluated for demographic details, anatomical distribution, and histopathological diagnosis. Results: The study demonstrated a marked male predominance [82.25%], with the highest frequency in the 41–50 years age group [27.43%]. Tubercular lymphadenitis was the most common diagnosis [27.42%], followed by metastatic deposits [24.19%], Non-Hodgkin lymphoma [14.52%], Hodgkin lymphoma [12.90%], and reactive lymphadenitis [12.91%]. Rare entities included Castleman’s and Kikuchi’s disease [1.61% each]. Age-specific trends were observed: tubercular lesions in young adults, metastatic deposits in older age groups, lymphomas in middle-aged individuals, and reactive lymphadenitis in children. Cervical lymph nodes were most frequently involved [40.3%], followed by supraclavicular [17.7%] and mesenteric nodes [16.1%], with metastatic deposits predominantly affecting supraclavicular and mesenteric regions. Conclusion: Lymph node lesions show distinct demographic, histopathological, and anatomical patterns. Middle-aged males constitute the primary affected population, tubercular lymphadenitis is the most common diagnosis, and cervical nodes are the predominant site. Recognition of these patterns can guide targeted diagnostic evaluation and improve patient management.