Neck Masses Specialist

What causes neck masses?

Neck masses or swollen areas in the neck can develop for several reasons, including infections, cysts, tumors and goiter, a condition that causes the thyroid gland to become inflamed and swollen. Most neck masses are not cancerous, but because cancerous tumors can and do occur in the neck, having any type of swelling or mass evaluated by a doctor is important for ensuring you get the most appropriate treatment. Generally speaking, masses that persist for a week or more or any mass that interferes with swallowing or breathing or which is accompanied by severe, stabbing pain should be evaluated in our office.

How are neck masses diagnosed?

First, a personal medical history will be taken and your neck will be carefully examined and evaluated, visually and with palpation (gentle touching). Endoscopy may also be ordered to provide an evaluation of the throat from the inside. In an endoscopy, a thin, lighted scope will be passed down your throat and a tiny camera will take pictures and send them back to a monitor where they can be viewed. When an unusual or abnormal-looking area is identified, a small tissue sample, or biopsy, can be removed during the endoscopy and evaluated in a lab. Diagnostic imaging like CT scans, ultrasound or x-rays may also be ordered to provide additional information. Depending on the results, a needle biopsy may be performed to extract a small amount of tissue from inside a mass so the tissue can be evaluated further.

How are neck masses treated?

That depends on the cause of the mass. Masses caused by infection or disorders of the thyroid gland may be treated with medication. Cysts may be treated with minimally-invasive surgical approaches and tumor may require surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.