Overview
A neck mass in an adult can be caused by many factors, including infection, inflammation, or tumors (benign or malignant). Unlike in children, persistent neck lumps in adults require a higher level of suspicion for underlying malignancy, especially in patients with risk factors like smoking or alcohol use.
Common causes
- Inflammatory: Swollen lymph nodes due to viral or bacterial infections in the head and neck
- Salivary Gland Disorders: Stones or tumors in the parotid or submandibular glands
- Thyroid Lumps: Nodules or cysts in the thyroid gland
- Metastatic Lymph Nodes: Spread from cancers of the skin, throat, or nasopharynx
When to see an ENT
- Any neck lump lasting more than 2-3 weeks
- Persistent hoarseness or change in voice
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss or night sweats
- One-sided ear blockage or hearing loss
- Persistent sore throat or mouth ulcers
What we do
- Comprehensive history and physical examination of the head and neck
- Nasoendoscopy to examine the nose, nasopharynx, and larynx
- Ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans of the neck
- Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) or Core Biopsy for tissue diagnosis
Management
- Antibiotics for proven infections
- Observation for stable, benign lesions
- Surgical excision for tumors or cysts
- Coordination with oncology for cases requiring multidisciplinary care