Description Of Cytological Characteristics of TB Lymphadenitis Patients at Madani General Hospital Medan in 2022-2024

Abstract

Tuberculous lymphadenitis (TBL) is a prevalent extrapulmonary manifestation of tuberculosis, characterized by chronic, painless enlargement of lymph nodes caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. This study aimed to analyze the cytological characteristics of TBL patients at Madani General Hospital Medan from 2022 to 2024. A descriptive retrospective design was employed, utilizing secondary data from medical records of patients whose lymph node cytology was confirmed by fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). The study population comprised all TBL cases documented in the hospital during the period, with a sample of 34 FNAB-confirmed patients. Data on demographics, lymph node sites, and cytological findings were collected and analyzed descriptively. Results showed that the predominant age group was 12–23 years (41.2%), with females representing 61.8% of cases. Cervical lymph nodes were the most frequently affected site (73.6%). Cytological features consistent with tuberculosis, including epithelioid cells and Langhans-type giant cells, were observed in all samples. The study concluded that TBL mainly affects young females with cervical lymphadenopathy and that FNAB is an effective, minimally invasive diagnostic tool. Increased case detection over the years highlights the need for ongoing surveillance and targeted health interventions.