Purpose of review: To review the body of literature on the treatment options for nontuberculous cervicofacial lymphadenitis in children, focusing on the most recent reports describing outcomes utilizing either observation alone, medical therapy or various forms of surgical intervention.
Recent findings: Large studies have defined the time course of the disease and the safety and efficacy in treating nontuberculosis cervicofacial lymphadenitis with a wait-and-see approach.
Summary: Nontuberculosis cervicofacial lymphadenitis is a disease with several stages that provides for various treatment options. All treatment regimens--wait-and-see approach, medical therapy, and surgical excision--have their risks and benefits. The current body of literature allows the otolaryngologist an assortment of treatment choices that permits him to tailor the treatment with an individualized approach for each family's preferences.