Neck Lumps: What to Know About Movable and Small Masses

Neck mass

Hello, I discovered a lump on the left side of my neck during the New Year celebrations.
I found three lumps: one larger and two smaller ones.
All of them are movable and have a soft consistency.
I later consulted with an ENT specialist and a family medicine doctor, both of whom advised me to monitor for any changes in size.
The lumps have not disappeared, but they also haven't increased in size.
However, in the past few days, I felt another small movable lump in the same area (I'm not sure if it was there before or if it developed later).
I'm quite anxious, so I underwent a fine needle aspiration.
An ultrasound showed that the largest lump measures 0.91 cm.
The doctor mentioned that the lump was too small, and only a small amount of material was extracted during the aspiration.
I'm very worried that it might be malignant.
Could you please tell me the likelihood that these four small, movable lumps are benign? I still have to wait two weeks for the report...

Jie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/14

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, based on your description, since the lump is smaller than 1 cm and movable, it is mostly indicative of a benign lymph node.
However, the final result should still be based on the biopsy report.
Wishing you good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2015/07/14

More Info

When it comes to neck lumps, particularly those that are small, movable, and elastic, there are several important factors to consider. Your situation, where you have discovered multiple lumps in the left posterior neck area, is understandably concerning. However, the characteristics of these lumps can provide some reassurance.

Firstly, the fact that the lumps are movable and elastic is generally a positive sign. In many cases, lumps that are soft, movable, and not fixed to underlying structures are more likely to be benign. Common benign causes of neck lumps include lymph nodes, lipomas (fatty tumors), and cysts. Lymph nodes, in particular, can become enlarged due to infections, inflammation, or other non-cancerous conditions.
The size of the lumps, particularly the largest one measuring 0.91 cm, is also relevant. While any new lump should be evaluated, small lumps (typically less than 1 cm) that are movable and elastic often have a lower likelihood of being malignant. However, it is essential to monitor any changes in size, shape, or consistency, as well as any associated symptoms such as pain, fever, or changes in swallowing or breathing.

The fine needle aspiration (FNA) you underwent is a valuable diagnostic tool. It allows for the collection of cells from the lump, which can then be analyzed for any signs of malignancy. While waiting for the results can be anxiety-inducing, it is important to remember that many small, movable lumps turn out to be benign upon further examination.

In terms of the likelihood of malignancy, the characteristics you described suggest a lower risk. However, the definitive answer will come from the pathology report following your FNA. If the report indicates benign findings, it may be recommended to continue monitoring the lumps over time. If there are any concerning features or if the lumps change, further imaging or surgical intervention may be warranted.

In the meantime, it is advisable to maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. They can help monitor the lumps and provide guidance based on the results of your FNA and any changes you may observe. If you experience any new symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing, persistent pain, or unexplained weight loss, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while the presence of movable, small lumps in the neck can be concerning, the characteristics you described are often associated with benign conditions. The results of your fine needle aspiration will provide more clarity, and until then, maintaining a watchful eye and regular communication with your healthcare provider is the best course of action. Remember, early detection and monitoring are key in managing any potential health concerns.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice

I noticed a lump in my neck today during the New Year celebrations. It's located on the side and back of my neck, and I measured it to be about 1.5 centimeters in size. It moves around when I touch it. There is also another smaller lump, about the size of a grain of rice, lo...

Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Hello, Neck masses can be broadly categorized into three main types: congenital, inflammatory, and neoplastic. 1. Congenital masses: These are more common in children but can also appear in adults. They include branchial cleft cysts (which account for approximately 20% of...

Understanding Small Movable Neck Lumps: Causes and Concerns

While showering, I felt a small, round lump that moves when pressed. It is symmetrical and not noticeable externally; you can only feel it when you touch it. Could this be caused by my recent irregular sleep schedule?

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hi, it is common to have lymph nodes in the neck. If there is no obvious tenderness and the size is less than 1 centimeter, you can observe it yourself for now. If you are concerned, you may visit an ENT clinic for examination. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Ch...

Understanding Movable Neck and Chest Lumps: When to Seek Specialist Care

Hello Doctor, I have had a lipoma on the back of my neck since my teenage years, which was surgically removed by a plastic surgeon last year. This year, I discovered a movable round mass about 2 cm on the right side of my neck, which is painless and can be moved side to side. It ...

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology
Happy New Year! If you have a neck lump in Australia, you should see an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist or a Plastic Surgeon. Thank you for your message. Chen Sih-Rong, Taoyuan Hospital.

Understanding Neck Masses: When to Seek Medical Evaluation

Hello Doctor, I have noticed a lump on the left side of my cervical spine over the past couple of days. Recently, an ENT specialist examined my throat and found no issues. The lump is not very prominent; it feels slightly raised, seems to be immobile, and is not very painful. I a...

Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Dear netizens, lumps in the head and neck region are generally first evaluated by an otolaryngologist. If the nature of the lump cannot be determined, it is recommended to consult a plastic surgeon for further evaluation. Most lumps located at the back of the neck are benign, so ...