Focal necrotizing cervical lymphadenitis without evidence of disseminated disease in an immunocompetent patient.

Previously healthy Caucasian female in her 30s initially presented for progressively enlarging right-sided cervical lymphadenopathy with associated sore throat. After she completed 2 antibiotic regimens for presumed infection with no relief, a CT Neck with contrast was obtained which demonstrated multiple pathologic lymph nodes, the largest lymph node demonstrating central necrosis. Patient underwent fine needle aspiration with Otolaryngology, as well as core needle biopsy with Interventional Radiology, both of which were nondiagnostic.

The Role of Palliative Medicine in Assessing Hereditary Cancer Risk.

Background:: Hereditary cancer assessment and communication about family history risks can be critical for surviving relatives. Palliative care (PC) is often the last set of providers before death.

Methods:: We replicated a prior study of the prevalence of hereditary cancer risk among patients with cancer receiving PC consultations, assessed the history in the electronic medical record (EMR), and explored patients' attitudes toward discussions about family history.

High-Risk Palliative Care Patients' Knowledge and Attitudes about Hereditary Cancer Testing and DNA Banking.

Even at the end of life, testing cancer patients for inherited susceptibility may provide life-saving information to their relatives. Prior research suggests palliative care inpatients have suboptimal understanding of genetic importance, and testing may be underutilized in this clinical setting. These conclusions are based on limited research.