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ℹWhat is Neck Mass?
Masses in the neck can stem from many different causes, and their level of importance changes according to age groups: in younger ages, congenital anomalies and infections come to the fore, while in those over the age of 40, tumoral formations become prominent.
While rapidly developing masses are generally infection-sourced, slow-growing and painless masses should be carefully examined from a tumoral perspective. Masses that last longer than two to three weeks and do not shrink definitely require a doctor's check-up.
Common Symptoms
Duration of the Mass
Rapidly developing (within days) masses suggest infection; slowly growing masses suggest neoplasm.
Physical Characteristics
Painless, hard, and fixed masses can be a sign of cancer. Masses that slide easily under the hand are usually more innocent.
Hoarseness
Changes in voice.
Dysphagia
Sensation of a lump in the throat.
Unexplained Weight Loss
May be accompanied by night sweats.
Non-healing Sores in the Mouth
Sign of cancer spread.
Diagnosis Methods
Physical Examination
The location, hardness, and size of the mass are checked.
Ultrasound
It is the first preferred imaging method.
CT or MRI
More detailed imaging is performed if necessary.
Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB)
Pathological examination is performed by taking cell/tissue samples from the suspicious mass.
Treatments
Infection Treatment
Reactive lymphadenopathy typically resolves when the underlying infection is treated. Specific infections (e.g., tuberculosis) receive appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
Surgical Excision
Removal of benign tumors (pleomorphic adenoma, lipoma) and cysts (branchial cleft cyst, thyroglossal duct cyst).
Oncological Treatment
Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery planned for malignant tumors (lymphoma, metastatic focus).