Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common cause of cervical adenitis?

1. Epstein-Barr virus

2. Staphylococcus aureus

3. Mycobacterium tuberculosis

4. HIV

The correct answer is: Staphylococcus aureus

Cervical adenitis, which refers to the inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck, can often be attributed to bacterial infections, with Staphylococcus aureus being one of the more common infectious agents. This organism is known to cause a variety of skin and soft tissue infections, and can also lead to lymphadenitis, particularly in cases where it has invaded the lymphatic system or where there has been an associated skin infection. While other pathogens, such as Epstein-Barr virus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and HIV, may also contribute to lymphadenopathy in general, they are not as frequently implicated in direct cervical adenitis as Staphylococcus aureus. Epstein-Barr virus primarily causes infectious mononucleosis and can lead to generalized lymphadenopathy but is less commonly isolated specifically from cervical lymphadenitis cases. Mycobacterium tuberculosis typically results in a more chronic form of lymphadenitis and may not present as acutely or dramatically as caused by Staphylococcus aureus. HIV can cause generalized lymphadenopathy but also involves systemic effects that are not specific to cervical adenitis. In summary, Staphylococcus aureus is a prevalent and well-recognized cause of acute cervical adenitis, making it a key pathogen