During this procedure, they’ll use a lighted instrument to see areas of your ears, nose, and throat that aren’t otherwise visible. The ENT specialist may perform an oto-rhino-laryngoscopy. In some cases, your healthcare provider may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for a detailed evaluation of those body parts as well as your sinuses. Your diagnosis will be based on your symptoms, history, and the results of the physical exam. A stone in the salivary duct, which can block saliva, can also cause a neck lump. Allergic reactions to medication and food can cause neck lumps. There are other, less common causes of neck lumps. They may also be caused by a branchial cleft cyst or thyroid nodules. Neck lumps might also be caused by lipomas, which develop under the skin. Many of these infections may be treated with prescription antibiotics. peritonsillar abscess, which is an abscess on or near the tonsils.infection from atypical mycobacterium, a type of bacteria most common in people with compromised immune systems and lung disease.These include:Ī bacterial infection can cause neck and throat problems, leading to inflammation and a neck lump. However, there are plenty of other viruses that can infect humans, many of which can cause a lump in the neck. When we think of viruses, we commonly think of the common cold and the flu. forms of skin cancer, such as actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.other types of cancer, including lung, throat, and breast cancer.The ACS states that signs of an HPV infection are now found in two-thirds of all throat cancers.Ĭancers that show up as a lump in the neck could include: This infection is generally transmitted sexually, and it’s very common.
Another common risk factor for cancers of the neck, throat, and mouth is a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Prolonged use of tobacco and alcohol are the two greatest risk factors for cancers of the mouth and throat, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and drinking, can also have an impact. For adults, the chance that a neck lump is cancerous increases after the age of 50, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Most neck lumps are benign, but cancer is a possible cause.
Lymph nodes contain cells that help your body fight off infections and attack malignant cells, or cancer. An enlarged lymph node is the most common cause of a neck lump.