Neck Mass

Neck masses usually form in the squamous cells lining the inside of the mouth, nose, and throat. When cancerous, they are highly curable if detected early, and often respond well to surgery or radiation treatment. Masses in the neck need to be evaluated. Some patients receive CT scan and needle biopsies to help with diagnosis.

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Neck Cancers

Cancers in this region are classified according to where they are located in the body. They include:

  • Oral cavity.

    This region includes the lips, tongue, hard palate, gums, and mouth.

  • Larynx.

    Comprised of the vocal cords and epiglottis.

  • Pharynx.

    There are three sections of the throat: the nasopharynx (the upper portion, located behind the nose), oropharynx (the middle section, which includes the soft palate and tonsils), and hypopharynx (the lower portion).

  • Paranasal sinuses.

    The nasal cavity.

  • Salivary glands.

    Located the bottom of the mouth near the jawbone.

Other Types of Cancers

Other types of cancers in close proximity, like brain tumors and thyroid cancer, behave very differently and are not considered cancers of the neck and throat.

Symptoms of Neck Cancer

Often, symptoms associated with neck cancers seem harmless at first. It’s only when they persist that you usually have cause for worry. Signs include swollen nymph nodes, a lump or sore that doesn’t heal, hoarseness, throat or neck pain, bleeding from the mouth, bad breath, earache, sore throat, mouth sores, sinus congestion, difficulty swallowing, and weight loss.

The majority of neck and throat cancers are caused by tobacco use; smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco both substantially increase your risk of cancer. Alcohol use, especially in people who also smoke, is another contributing factor. Exposure to industrial toxins, a diet high in red meats and processed foods, human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus, and acid reflux can all add to your risk.

Neck Cancer Treatment

As with all cancers, treatment depends upon the size and location of the tumor, whether it has spread to other areas, and the overall health of the patient. Masses such as branchial cleft cysts, thyroglossal duct cysts, suspicious lymph nodes and tumors are usually surgically removed. Other options include chemotherapy or targeted therapy. Treatment sometimes consists of a combination of methods.