Should I See a Doctor for a 1.5 cm Neck Lump After 3 Years?

A mass approximately 1.5 centimeters in size located in the left posterior cervical region?

I have noticed this lump for at least three years.
When I look in the mirror, I can't see the lump unless I turn my neck to the right; then, a round lump becomes noticeable on the back of my left neck.
It feels hard and can be moved around.
It is usually not painful, and pressing on it does not cause any pain.
I estimate it to be about 1.5 centimeters in size, which has remained the same since I first discovered it; it has neither grown nor shrunk.
Since there are no other unusual symptoms in my body and I feel fine, I have not paid much attention to it.
Should I see a doctor, or should I wait until there are changes before consulting one? Thank you, doctor, for your effort in answering.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/18

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, based on your description, the neck mass could potentially be a malignant or benign tumor, a congenital cyst, lymphadenopathy, lipoma, etc.
If it is lymphadenopathy, treatment often involves medication, and antibiotics may be used if necessary.
However, if the neck swelling continues to progress and leads to a deep neck infection, antibiotic treatment is essential.
If the condition is still progressing, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for evaluation.
Wishing you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2019/06/18

More Info

When it comes to a neck lump that has been present for three years without any significant changes, it is understandable to feel uncertain about whether to seek medical attention. However, there are several important factors to consider regarding your situation.

Firstly, the characteristics of the lump you described are noteworthy. You mentioned that it is approximately 1.5 cm in size, hard, movable, and does not cause pain or discomfort. These features can be indicative of a benign condition, such as a lipoma (a fatty tumor) or a lymph node that has become enlarged due to a previous infection. However, the fact that it has remained unchanged over three years is somewhat reassuring, as many malignant tumors tend to grow over time.

Despite the lack of symptoms, it is generally advisable to consult a healthcare professional for any persistent lump, especially one that has been present for an extended period. While the lump may not currently cause discomfort or pain, there is always a possibility that it could represent a more serious condition, such as a cyst or, in rare cases, a malignant tumor. A medical evaluation can provide peace of mind and ensure that any necessary diagnostic tests are performed.

In terms of the next steps, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider, such as a primary care physician or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. During the consultation, the doctor will likely perform a physical examination of the lump and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or a CT scan, to assess the lump's characteristics further. If there is any concern regarding the nature of the lump, a biopsy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for analysis.

It is also important to consider any changes in your health status. If you notice any new symptoms, such as pain, swelling, changes in the skin over the lump, or systemic symptoms like fever, weight loss, or night sweats, it would be prudent to seek medical attention sooner rather than later.

In summary, while the lump you described has not changed in size or caused any discomfort over the past three years, it is still advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Early assessment can help rule out any serious conditions and provide you with the necessary reassurance regarding your health. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential health concerns.

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