Child Health A-Z

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) and 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 (non-cancerous). Cancerous neck masses are rare in young infants and children, but occasionally a mass is diagnosed as Hodgkin's or non-Hodgkin's disease - both cancers of the lymphatic system.

Your child's physician will consider many factors when diagnosing a neck mass, including 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:

careful visualization and palpation (feeling with the fingers) of 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

Further 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.

Last Update
February 3, 2008