Neck Mass

Neck masses are classifiable into three types based on the cause of the disease

1. Congenital abnormalities found in the young
2. Inflammation or infection caused by infectious disease with pain in the lymph nodes and when pressed.
3. The tumors, either cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign)

Common diseases that cause neck mass, include

1. Thyroid disorders such as thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, an enlarged thyroid gland, or thyroiditis
2. Lymph node disorders, such as lymphadenitis and lymphoma, as well as cancers that have spread to the lymph nodes, such as nasopharyngeal cancer, cancer of the mouth, pharynx, or larynx
3. Salivary gland disorders such as inflammation, enlargement, and cancer of the salivary glands
4. Lumps due to congenital anomalies, such as a Branchial cleft cyst, Thyroglossal duct cyst, Cystic hygroma, or Dermoid cyst.

Treatments of a neck mass

Treatments for a neck mass vary depending on the cause of the neck mass. If due to a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics. However, if found to be cancer, a doctor may consider treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, or irradiation based on the histologic type, cancer staging, and the patient's health.

Possible complications of a neck mass

The most common complication involving neck mass is compression on the vital organs in the neck, which can cause several symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, choking, hoarseness, difficulty breathing, and possibly death.

Characteristics of a neck mass that requires hospitalization

1. A neck mass that lasts more than two weeks
2. An unmovable, uneven mass with a rapid increase in size, pain, or tender when pressed
3. ENT symptoms, such as tinnitus, nasal congestion, nosebleeds, oral ulcers, painful swallowing, stuck swallowing, choking, or hoarse voice

Those experiencing any of these symptoms should seek medical advice from an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) as soon as possible.