Neck Lumps: When to Worry and What to Expect - Otolaryngology

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Neck issues?


Hello Dr.
Cheng, about three days ago, I accidentally felt a soft, elastic, and movable painless lump on the lower right side of my neck (near the shoulder).
After researching online, I became anxious about it and immediately visited an ENT clinic that same evening.
The doctor, after palpation, indicated that the lump is approximately 0.8 cm in size and is normal lymphatic tissue, advising that I only need to monitor it for any changes in size; if it does not grow, there is no cause for concern.
The doctor also mentioned that it may have been there all along, but I just never noticed it.
The doctor examined my nasal cavity, throat, and laryngopharynx, and found no abnormalities.
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Given that the lump is painless, is there a possibility that this symptom could indicate a malignant tumor? 2.
Is it true, as the attending physician stated, that if it does not grow, there is no need for excessive worry? 3.
Is there a possibility that the lump could resolve on its own? Thank you for your guidance, Dr.
Cheng!

Wayne, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/07

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology


Hello: 1.
A painless lump does not indicate whether it is benign or malignant.
2.
Currently, if the lump is less than 1 cm in size and mobile, it is often indicative of a benign lymph node, and observation may be appropriate.
3.
Normal lymph nodes may not completely disappear; they can enlarge during infections and decrease in size after the infection improves, but they will not entirely vanish.
Wishing you peace and health.
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Zheng Jue-Yi.

Reply Date: 2019/01/07

More Info


Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the neck lump you discovered. It's completely understandable to feel anxious when you find something unusual in your body, especially when it comes to lumps or bumps. Let's address your questions one by one and provide some additional context to help you understand the situation better.

1. Could the lump be a malignant tumor?
The characteristics of the lump you described—soft, elastic, movable, and painless—are generally more indicative of benign conditions, such as a lymph node or a lipoma (a benign fatty tumor). Malignant tumors often present as hard, fixed, and sometimes painful masses. However, it’s important to note that while the absence of pain and the lump's mobility are reassuring signs, they do not completely rule out the possibility of malignancy. If there are any changes in the lump's characteristics, such as an increase in size, firmness, or the development of pain, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider.

2. Is it true that if the lump doesn’t grow, there’s no need to worry?
Yes, your doctor’s advice to monitor the lump for changes is sound. Many people have small, benign lumps that do not require treatment unless they change in size or cause discomfort. Regular monitoring can help ensure that any changes are caught early. If the lump remains stable and you have no other concerning symptoms (like fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss), it is likely that there is no cause for alarm. However, if you notice any changes, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.

3. Is it possible for the lump to disappear on its own?
Yes, some benign lumps, particularly lymph nodes, can fluctuate in size and may even resolve on their own. This is especially true if the lump is related to a transient infection or inflammation. Your body’s immune response can sometimes reduce the size of lymph nodes as the underlying issue resolves. However, if the lump persists or grows, it’s advisable to have it re-evaluated by a healthcare professional.

In addition to your specific questions, it’s important to consider a few general points regarding neck lumps:
- Common Causes: Neck lumps can arise from various causes, including infections (like viral or bacterial infections), benign tumors (like lipomas or cysts), and lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes due to infection or inflammation). In some cases, they can also be related to more serious conditions, so monitoring is key.

- When to Seek Further Evaluation: If you experience additional symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, persistent hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, or if the lump changes in size or character, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

- Follow-Up: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help ensure that any changes are monitored appropriately. If you have any lingering concerns or if your anxiety about the lump persists, discussing these feelings with your doctor can also be beneficial.

In conclusion, while it’s natural to feel anxious about new findings in your body, the characteristics of your lump and the advice from your healthcare provider suggest that it is likely benign. Keeping an eye on it and maintaining open communication with your doctor will help you manage your concerns effectively. If you have any further questions or need clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out. Take care!

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