Overview of Neck Masses
Overview of Neck Masses
What are neck masses?
Neck masses are common problems in infants and children. Some neck masses are congenital (present at birth). They result from abnormal formation during embryonic development. Many neck masses appear with an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold or sinus infection. Some are not found until they become enlarged and painful from infection. Although a neck mass can involve other structures in the head and neck area, most are benign (noncancerous). Cancerous neck masses are rare in young infants and children. Occasionally, a mass is diagnosed as Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin diseaseāboth cancers of the lymphatic system.
Your child's healthcare provider will consider many factors when diagnosing a neck mass. These include the following:
The age of child
How long the mass has been present, and whether other masses are present
Family history of masses
Any prior or ongoing illnesses, ear infections, and/or animal bites
Examination of neck masses may include the following:
Carefully looking at and feeling the child's neck
Identifying the specific location of the mass
Checking for movement of the neck and the mass itself
Observing for swelling, redness, warmth, tenderness, drainage, or fluid in the mass
More tests may be needed to completely diagnose the type of neck mass and whether other tissues and structures in the neck are involved. Treating neck masses depends on the type of mass and whether there is infection. Often, surgical removal of the mass is needed.
Updated:  
March 21, 2017
Reviewed By:  
Kacker, Ashutosh, MD,Kolbus, Karin, RN, DNP, COHN-S