Investigation of cervical lymphadenopathy presumed to be metastatic in nature: A review of current clinical practice

The method adopted by UK otolaryngologists for investigating cervical lymphadenopathy presumed to be metastatic in nature is reported. This is based on a confidential questionnaire sent to all members of the British Association of Otolaryngologists. The results of this survey show that the majority of otolaryngologists make a diligent search for a possible primary tumour by performing a panendoscopy. They do not, however, make full use of other investigative techniques such as fine needle aspiration cytology (9%) or computed tomography (6%). The management of patients with cervical masses could be improved by more widespread use of computed tomographic scanning where available and the development of fine needle aspiration cytology in all departments performing head and neck surgery.