Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) cervical adenitis in children is a largely self-limited infection afflicting healthy immunocompetent children, frequently in those before the age of 5 years. The diagnosis and management of NTM cervical adenitis in children remains challenging and is highly variable.

firstly, accurate and timely identification of NTM species is crucial for appropriate management, but currently a gold-standard diagnostic test remains elusive and thus, distinguishing NTM from other causes of subacute cervical adenopathy, both infectious and non-infectious, can be difficult, especially in the early stages of infection.

treatment strategies are also variable, ranging from expectant management to long-term antimicrobial therapy and surgical excision. With respect to antimicrobial therapy, there has historically been little consensus on the most effective antimicrobial regimen and duration. The spectrum of treatment varies from a conservative approach, treatment with long-term antimicrobial therapy, to surgical intervention, ranging from incision and curettage to complete excision of the involved lymph nodes. The balance between minimizing treatment-related complications and sequelae and ensuring complete eradication of infection remains a challenge.

in summary, the controversies in NTM cervical adenitis management revolve around diagnostic uncertainties and diverse treatment approaches. The objective of this lecture is to provide an approach to the diagnosis of the pediatric patient with subacute cervical lymphadenopathy and then present the advantages and disadvantages of surgical versus conservative management approaches, using best-available evidence and clinical vignettes.

Newborn hearing screening programs (NHSP) represent a major scientific advancement that has made significant contributions to society — not only in the fields of otologic and pediatric health, but also in education and psychosocial development. Although nhsps were first introduced in developed countries in europe and the united states, their greatest impact may now be emerging in other parts of the world.

therefore, i propose that the scientific board of IFOS consider organizing a scientific round table or international symposium that brings together international experts — particularly from developing and least developed countries — who have practical experience in implementing national hearing screening programs.

the expected outcomes of this meeting include identifying best practices adaptable to different healthcare infrastructures, developing recommendations for policymakers, and strengthening international cooperation within the IFOS framework.

the round table or international symposium could be organized as part of the upcoming IFOS congress, featuring concise presentations followed by open discussions among multidisciplinary experts, including otologists, audiologists, pediatricians, and public health specialists.

i am confident that this initiative will create a valuable platform for sharing global experiences and further strengthen ifos’s leadership in preventive otology. I would be pleased to collaborate with the scientific board in refining this concept and identifying potential contributors.

reference: y. K. Kemaloğlu, " newborn hearing screening," in otology update , basel: springer nature switzerland ag, 2025, pp.719-742.