Neck Mass

Neck lumps are common and need careful evaluation. The commonest cause is lymphadenopathy, followed by thyroid enlargement. The distinction between the two is easily made on clinical grounds.

Lymphadenopathy and thyroid enlargements are managed by General Surgery, all other masses including salivary gland pathology (except vascular pathology) are referred to ENT

Most lymphadenopathy is reactive and self-limiting, but pathological cases are commonly related to TB, lymphoma, metastatic disease and lymphoma.

FNAB is recommended for ALL diagnostic sampling of lymph nodes.

An inadequate specimen is an indication for a repeat NOT an excision.

Excision biopsy is recommended only diagnostic uncertainty or sub-classification of lymphoma. Large lymph nodes should undergo trucut biopsy NOT incision biopsy to avoid chronic sinuses.