Neck Lumps: Could They Be Lymphoma?

A lump in the neck?

Hello Doctor: Around January of this year, I noticed a lump in my throat area.
It was initially somewhat large, but after I had a cold and recovered, the lump decreased in size, though it didn't completely disappear; it's about 0.5 cm now.
In February, I found another lump on the right side of my neck.
I initially thought it was a pimple, and it was about 1 cm.
When I squeezed it, some clear fluid came out, but a few days later, it didn't go away.
I couldn't squeeze anything else out, and it doesn't feel particularly hard.
It is still there, and its size hasn't noticeably increased.
However, I also noticed a similar lump on the left side of my neck in roughly the same location, but it feels softer and is about the same size.
It is somewhat painful.
I would like to ask the doctor what this could be.
Could it be lymphoma?

Afa, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/02

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Afa / 16 years old / Male
1.
Around January of this year, I noticed a lump in my throat area.
It was initially somewhat large, but after recovering from a cold, it shrank a bit, though it hasn't completely disappeared.
It's about 0.5 cm in size.

2.
In February, another lump appeared on the right side of my neck.
I initially thought it was a pimple, and it was about 1 cm.
When I squeezed it, some clear fluid came out, but after a few days, it didn't go away.
I couldn't squeeze anything else out, and it doesn't feel particularly hard.
It is still there, and its size hasn't noticeably increased.
3.
A similar lump has appeared on the left side of my neck, at about the same location, but it feels softer and is about the same size.
It is also somewhat painful.
I would like to consult a doctor about what this could be.
Could it be lymphoma? It seems like there are three locations.
The one that has shrunk is less likely to be cancer.
1.
It is advisable to have a physician conduct an in-person examination for a more accurate diagnosis.

2.
If the lumps are shrinking or not continuing to grow, monitoring them may be appropriate.

3.
If they increase in size, change color, or cause discomfort, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

Best regards,
Chen Si-Rong, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2016/05/02

More Info

When it comes to understanding neck lumps, particularly in the context of your symptoms, it is essential to consider several factors, including the characteristics of the lumps, their duration, and associated symptoms. Based on your description, you have noticed multiple lumps in your neck area, which have varied in size and consistency over time.
Firstly, it is important to clarify that lumps in the neck can arise from various causes, including benign conditions like lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), cysts, or even infections. Lymph nodes can swell in response to infections, inflammation, or malignancies. In your case, the fact that the lumps have changed in size and have been present for several months suggests that they are likely reactive lymph nodes, which are common in response to infections or other inflammatory processes.

Lymphoma, which is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, can present as swollen lymph nodes. However, there are specific characteristics that differentiate lymphoma from benign causes. Lymphoma typically presents with painless, firm, and often rubbery lymph nodes that do not fluctuate in size significantly over short periods. In contrast, your description of the lumps being soft, painful, and changing in size may indicate a more benign process.
The presence of transparent fluid after squeezing a lump could suggest a cyst or an inflamed lymph node rather than a malignant process. It is also worth noting that lymph nodes can become tender and painful when they are reacting to an infection or inflammation, which aligns with your experience of having a cold prior to noticing the lumps.

Given your concerns about lymphoma, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. This may include a physical examination, imaging studies (like an ultrasound or CT scan), and possibly a biopsy if there is suspicion of malignancy. A biopsy can provide definitive information about the nature of the lump, whether it is benign or malignant.

In summary, while your symptoms warrant further investigation, the characteristics you describe lean more towards benign causes rather than lymphoma. However, only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis. It is advisable to seek medical attention to alleviate your concerns and ensure appropriate management. Regular follow-ups and monitoring of the lumps are also essential, especially if there are any changes in size, consistency, or associated symptoms.

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