What to do if you find a lump in your child's neck

Discovering a lump in your child's neck can be alarming, but it is important to remain calm and take the appropriate steps to determine the cause. Here’s a guide on what to do and what questions to consider, provided to us by esteemed ENT specialist, Mr Michael Kuo. 

First steps

If you notice a lump in your child's neck, the first step is to observe it closely. Note its size, shape, and whether it is hard or soft. Check if the lump is movable or fixed in one place. Monitor if it changes over time, grows, or causes discomfort to your child. These observations can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

Seek medical advice

Schedule an appointment with your paediatrician as soon as possible. Even though many neck lumps in children are benign, such as swollen lymph nodes due to infections, it’s crucial to get a professional evaluation. The doctor will conduct a physical examination and may ask about recent illnesses, injuries, or other symptoms like fever or weight loss.

Possible causes

Common causes of neck lumps in children include:

• Infections: Bacterial or viral infections often lead to swollen lymph nodes.
• Congenital conditions: Some children may have cysts or growths that are present from birth.
• Inflammatory conditions: Such as Kawasaki disease or other autoimmune disorders.
• Tumours: Though less common, both benign and malignant tumors can develop in the neck.

Diagnostic tests

Your paediatrician might recommend diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the lump. These can include blood tests, ultrasound, or even a biopsy if the lump is suspicious. These tests will help in forming an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If the lump is due to an infection, antibiotics or antiviral medications might be prescribed. For cysts or benign growths, monitoring or surgical removal could be considered. If the lump is malignant, the pediatrician will refer you to a specialist for further management, which may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.