A lump on the neck can be a concerning discovery, often prompting questions about its origin and implications. A neck lump generally refers to any noticeable swelling, mass, or protuberance felt or seen in the neck region. While many such lumps are benign and resolve on their own, understanding the potential causes is a natural and important step. This article provides general information regarding common causes of neck lumps and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Lumps from Inflammation and Infection
The most frequent reason for a neck lump arises from the body’s response to inflammation or infection. Lymph nodes, small, bean-shaped glands that are part of the immune system, often swell in response to nearby infections. These swollen lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenopathy, become more prominent as they filter pathogens like bacteria and viruses. Common infections such as the common cold, influenza, strep throat, or ear infections frequently cause these nodes to enlarge.
When lymph nodes swell due to infection, they are typically tender to the touch, movable under the skin, and may appear relatively quickly. Other inflammatory causes of neck lumps can include abscesses, which are collections of pus, or cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that causes redness and swelling.
Lumps from Development and Benign Growths
Some neck lumps are not directly related to infection but stem from developmental anomalies or benign tissue growths. Cysts represent fluid-filled sacs that can form in the neck. A branchial cleft cyst, for example, forms when tissues in the neck and collarbone region fail to close properly during embryonic development, potentially appearing as a lump later in life. Sebaceous cysts, another common type, result from blocked or inflamed oil glands in the skin, creating a soft, movable nodule.
Lipomas are another common type of benign neck lump, characterized as soft, fatty deposits that grow slowly just beneath the skin. These lumps feel rubbery and are easily movable when pressed, typically causing no pain unless they grow large enough to compress nerves. Fibromas are small, benign fibrous growths composed of connective tissue. These developmental or benign growths are generally harmless, though they may require removal if they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.
Lumps from Glands in the Neck
The neck houses several important glands, and issues with these glands can also manifest as noticeable lumps. The thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck, can develop nodules, which are solid or fluid-filled lumps within the gland. While most thyroid nodules are benign, a small percentage can be cancerous. An enlarged thyroid gland, known as a goiter, can also present as a diffuse swelling or a single prominent lump in the neck.
Salivary glands, including the parotid glands located in front of the ears and the submandibular glands beneath the jaw, can also be sources of neck lumps. Swelling in these glands might occur due to blockages from salivary stones, leading to a painful lump, especially during or after eating. Infections of the salivary glands, such as mumps, can also cause significant swelling. Less commonly, benign or malignant tumors can develop within these glands, presenting as firm, persistent lumps.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding when a neck lump warrants medical attention is important. A healthcare professional should evaluate any neck lump that appears rapidly, grows quickly, or has been present for an extended period without a clear explanation. Lumps that feel hard, are fixed in place, or cause no pain might be more concerning and should prompt a medical visit.
Accompanying symptoms can also signal the need for medical advice. Lumps associated with unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, night sweats, or generalized fatigue require prompt evaluation. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or breathing (dyspnea), as well as changes in voice quality, such as hoarseness, are also significant indicators. Any neck lump discovered in an infant or young child should always be assessed by a pediatrician without delay.
What to Expect During a Medical Evaluation
When seeking medical advice for a neck lump, patients can anticipate a structured diagnostic process designed to identify the cause. The evaluation typically begins with a detailed medical history, where the doctor will ask about when the lump first appeared, its growth pattern, and any associated symptoms. This is followed by a thorough physical examination, where the doctor will carefully palpate the lump, assessing its size, texture, mobility, and any tenderness. The doctor will also examine other areas of the head and neck.
To further investigate the lump, several diagnostic tests may be ordered. Initial tests often include blood work to check for signs of infection or inflammation. Imaging studies are commonly used, with an ultrasound often being the first choice due to its non-invasive nature and ability to differentiate between solid and fluid-filled masses. Depending on the ultrasound findings, a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed to provide more detailed anatomical information. A fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, which involves collecting a small tissue sample with a thin needle for microscopic examination, is frequently used to determine the exact nature of the lump.