Neck lumps Flashcards
what is the most commonest cause of neck swellings?
reactive lymphadenopathy
what causes reactive lymphadenopathy
history of local infection or a generalised viral illness
what does a lymphoma feel like and is it painful?
Rubbery, painless lymphadenopathy
what effect does drinking alcohol have on lymphoma lump in terms of pain?
pain whilst drinking alcohol is very uncommon
how do you identify a thyroid swelling?
Moves upwards on swallowing
what age is a thyroglossal cyst common in?
< 20 years
what is the location of a thyroglossal cyst?
Usually midline, between the isthmus of the thyroid and the hyoid bone
what effect does protrusion of the tongue have on thyroglossal cyst?
Moves upwards with protrusion of the tongue
when can a thyroglossal cyst become painful?
if infected
age and sex of pharyngeal pouch
older males
what is a pharyngeal pouch?
a posteromedial herniation between thyropharyngeus and cricopharyngeus muscles
what is seen on palpation of a pharyngeal pouch?
Usually not seen but if large then a midline lump in the neck that gurgles on palpation
typical symptoms of a pharyngeal pouch?
dysphagia, regurgitation, aspiration and chronic cough
what is a cystic hygroma and where is it found?
A congenital lymphatic lesion (lymphangioma) typically found in the neck, classically on the left side
what age is a cystic hygroma present?
at birth, around 90% present before 2 years of age
