Why do neck lumps occur?
Benign neck lumps, which are non-cancerous, can arise embryologically, from infections or spontaneously. The parotid glands, located in front of the ears, can develop lumps due to infections, tumors, or salivary stones. Submandibular lumps, found under the jaw, may develop from similar causes. The sublingual glands, located underneath the tongue, can also have lumps due to cysts, mucus retention, or salivary stones. Benign thyroid swellings are usually caused by multiple nodules and are very common.
While most neck lumps are usually harmless, persistent or enlarging lumps should always be evaluated by a doctor. Please consider making an appointment to have a consultation with Mr Jonathan Hughes if you have a neck lump of any description, simply to rule our serious conditions, such as cancer.
How will you investigate my neck lump?
We have a multidisciplinary team on hand to help us get the best outcome for you. Following your initial consultation with Mr Jonathan Hughes, we may perform an ultrasound scan to determine the size, location, and whether the lump is solid or contains fluid. Often a biopsy or fine needle aspiration is performed at the same time as the ultrasound scan.
A CT or an MRI scan may come next, depending on the initial findings of the ultrasound. These can give us more information about the lump, as well as how deep the tissue layers are that it’s affecting. If there is suspicion of cancer or if your lump demonstrates certain characteristics, we might also recommend a PETCT scan. This can help us in identifying whether it is benign or malignant, and whether the lump has spread to other parts of your body. You may also need a throat biopsy. We’ll give you all the information you need about the investigation route we’ll take in your individual case, when we meet in person.
If my neck lump is cancerous, what treatment will I need?
The treatment for a cancerous neck lump largely depends on the type, size and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health and individual preferences. Common treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Radiotherapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells; chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells throughout your body. Surgery can involve open techniques with incisions in the skin, or less invasive methods using robotic (TORS) or laser technology.
If you receive a cancer diagnosis for your next lump, you may need to meet an oncologist to discuss radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Have I got a cyst?
Branchial cysts and thyroglossal cysts are two different types of benign (non-cancerous) growths. Branchial cysts are typically found in the upper lateral neck.
Thyroglossal cysts are a common type of developmental anomaly in the neck. Symptoms may include a neck mass, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), or dyspnoea (difficulty breathing), especially if the cyst becomes infected or enlarges.
Treatment for both types of cysts often involves surgical removal to prevent complications and alleviate symptoms. Antibiotics may also be prescribed if there is an infection present.
