Neck and thyroid examination

Question 1

What are the borders of the anterior triangle of the neck?

Answer 1

The midline of the neck, the inferior border of the mandible, and the anterior border of the SCM

Question 2

What are the borders of the posterior triangle of the neck?

Answer 2

The posterior border of the SCM, the middle 1/3 of the upper border of the clavicle, and the anterior border of the trapezius muscle

Question 3

Where do you start palpating lymph nodes of the neck?

Answer 3

The mastoid process

Question 4

What are the key points to remember when palpating lymph nodes of the neck?

Answer 4

Palpate in circular motions
Palpate both sides simultaneously
Stand behind the patient with them sitting down

Question 5

What is wry neck?

Answer 5

The colloquial term for torticollis, which is unilateral spasm of the neck muscles

Question 6

What are symptoms of an enlarged thyroid (goitre)?

Answer 6

Hoarseness, dysphagia and dyspnoea