Paeds Cases · clinical-assessment-and-reasoning
Lymphadenopathy and organomegaly: diagnostic approach — OSCE
OSCE counselling station for paediatric lymphadenopathy and EBV-related organomegaly concerns.
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Target exams
MRCPCH ClinicalRACP DCE
Prompt
You have 8 minutes with a parent of an 8-year-old with a neck lump for 3 weeks after a cold. Counsel, outline assessment and agree a plan. A second cue may introduce fatigue and possible splenomegaly.
Station brief (candidate)
- Explain that enlarged nodes are common after infection and usually reactive. [1] [2]
- Take focused history: duration, growth of lump, fever, night sweats, weight loss, bruising, animal scratches, TB risk, sore throat, fatigue. [1] [5]
- Outline examination priorities: all node stations, ENT/skin source, liver and spleen. [1]
- Agree observation versus investigation criteria and a review time. [4]
- If EBV/spleen cue appears, counsel activity restriction principles. [3]
- Use teach-back; avoid false reassurance and avoid catastrophic language.
References5ShowHide
- [1]Weinstock MS Pediatric Cervical Lymphadenopathy Pediatrics in review, 2018.PMID 30171054
- [2]Deosthali A Etiologies of Pediatric Cervical Lymphadenopathy: A Systematic Review of 2687 Subjects Global pediatric health, 2019.PMID 31384630
- [3]Leung AKC Infectious Mononucleosis: An Updated Review Current pediatric reviews, 2024.PMID 37526456
- [4]Harris JE Management of Pediatric Persistent Asymptomatic Cervical Lymphadenopathy Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 2024.PMID 37418178
- [5]Klotz SA Cat-scratch Disease American family physician, 2011.PMID 21243990