Philippine Journal of Surgical Specialties Vol. 71, No. 2, July-December, 2016, pp 80-94
The PSGS Evidence-based Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Diagnosis and Initial Management of Cervical Lymphadenopathy
Author(s): Fernando L. Lopez, MD, FPCS, Ida Marie Tabangay-Lim, MD, FPCS, Alfred Phillip O. de Dios, MD, FPCS, Marwin Emerson V. Matic, MD, FPCS, Rex Jeffrey P. Montecillo, MD, FPCS, Maria Cheryl L. Cucueco, MD, FPCS, and Ma. Luisa D. Aquino, MD, FPCS
Abstract:
Introduction:
The presence of cervical lymphadenopathy is a common condition presenting to the surgeon. This may be associated with various diseases such as an acute bacterial infection in the head and neck region, tuberculosis, or malignancy. There is significant variability among clinicians in the approach to its diagnosis and management because of the lack of evidence-based guidelines which are can be applicable to our local setting. Recognizing this need, the Philippine Society of General Surgeons (PSGS), through the Head and Neck Study Group decided to formulate evidence-based clinical practice guidelines on the diagnosis and initial management of cervical lymphadenopathy.
These guidelines are based on the most recent available scientific evidence and the views of local experts on current practices. They are intended to guide surgeons (fellows and resident trainees) and general physicians who encounter such clinical condition in their practice and assist them in clinical decision making. They are merely recommendations and may be modified according to patients’ preferences, socio cultural and other factors that may affect the management of actual patients. These statements are not to be used as a basis for court litigations, administrative sanctions or similar situations. This project was funded solely by PSGS.
Key words: Evidence-based Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Diagnosis and Initial Management of Cervical Lymphadenopathy