Neck Mass

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can access exceptional care for a neck mass. As a global leader in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For over a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for ear, nose and throat (ENT) and head and neck conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for complex specialty care according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT and head and neck conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists has pioneered many of the otorhinolaryngological techniques used today and is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

When you need neck mass care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.

Neck masses can result from a wide range of causes, including:

• Benign tumors, such as lipomas or other soft tissue growths
• Congenital abnormalities like branchial cleft cysts or thyroglossal duct cysts
• Infections such as bacterial strep throat or viral mononucleosis, leading to swollen lymph nodes
• Malignant tumors, including cancers of the head, neck or thyroid, or metastases from other parts of the body
• Thyroid conditions, including goiters or thyroid nodules

Symptoms of neck masses depend on their cause and may include:

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Enlarged lymph nodes that persist after an infection resolves
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Persistent hoarseness or voice changes
• Visible swelling or lump in the neck

If a neck mass persists for more than two weeks, grows rapidly or is associated with other concerning symptoms, it should be evaluated by a specialist.

Accurate diagnosis of neck masses requires a combination of:

• Advanced imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Blood tests to identify infections or thyroid dysfunction
• Comprehensive physical examinations
• Fine needle aspiration or core needle biopsy to analyze tissue samples

Treatment for neck masses at Montefiore Einstein is tailored to the underlying cause and may include:

• Comprehensive rehabilitation services, including speech and swallowing therapy, to support recovery and enhance quality of life
• Medications to address infections or manage thyroid-related conditions
• Minimally invasive procedures to drain cysts or abscesses
• Radiation therapy and chemotherapy for malignant conditions requiring additional treatment
• Surgical removal of benign or malignant tumors, cysts or thyroid abnormalities