Neck Tumors: When to Seek Medical Attention

Q: Neck Tumors: When to Seek Medical Attention

Emily： You need to see a doctor right away! Consult with a hematologist and an otolaryngologist to check for the possibility of lymphoma or nasopharyngeal cancer. <br>I hope everything turns out fine.

A tumor has developed on the neck?

I previously had a tumor on my neck, which I thought was just swollen lymph nodes, so I didn't pay much attention to it.
Recently, I noticed that the tumor has grown larger.
I visited a dermatologist, and since I had a cold before, she advised me to observe it for two weeks.
If it doesn't go down, I should see a doctor again.
However, today I discovered that a new lump has formed underneath the original tumor.
Should I continue to observe it for another two weeks, or should I see a doctor immediately? If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult?

Ai Mi Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/30

Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology

Emily: You need to see a doctor right away! Consult with a hematologist and an otolaryngologist to check for the possibility of lymphoma or nasopharyngeal cancer.
I hope everything turns out fine.

Reply Date: 2005/04/30

More Info

When it comes to neck tumors, particularly those that have changed in size or have developed new growths, it is crucial to take prompt action. The situation you described, where you initially thought the tumor was just an enlarged lymph node but have now noticed it growing and even developing a new mass underneath, warrants immediate medical attention rather than further observation.

In general, any persistent or enlarging mass in the neck should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. While lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes) can be a common response to infections, the fact that the mass has grown and a new one has appeared suggests that further investigation is necessary. This is especially true if you have a history of respiratory infections or other health issues that could complicate the situation.

You should consider seeing an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist. ENT doctors are trained to evaluate and manage conditions related to the head and neck, including tumors and masses. They can perform a thorough examination, which may include imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs, and possibly a biopsy to determine the nature of the tumor.

It is important to act quickly because some neck masses can be indicative of serious conditions, including infections, benign tumors, or malignancies. The presence of a new mass, especially in conjunction with an existing one, increases the likelihood that further evaluation is needed to rule out any serious underlying issues.

In summary, do not wait for another two weeks to observe the masses. Instead, schedule an appointment with an ENT specialist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing any potential health issues effectively. If you experience any additional symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, persistent pain, unexplained weight loss, or changes in voice, these should also be communicated to your healthcare provider as they can provide important clues regarding the nature of the masses.

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