I had a CT with contrast yesterday-it shows a 7-8mm nodular mass anterior to the right masseter muscle likely representing an enlarged lymph node- I got the scan because I found the mass on my face and the surgeon ordered the CT thinking it might be a lymph node related to sinus issues but the sinus scan was all clear. I have been on antibiotics since I found it with no change-should I have it removed or leave it? What could it mean?
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Should I have a perifacial lymph node removed?
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1 UpVoted this answer
If it is under one centimeter I generally would observe it. If the radiologist felt they could hit it with a needle for a needle biopsy I would definitely do that before removing it. The radiologist generally won't try to needle it until it is over one centimeter. It is likely a reactive node ( reactive to infection) that scarred to that size. The infection could have been a pimple,a sinus infection, an ear infection, or others. I would watch to see if it grows.
1 UpVoted this answer
You should see an ENT surgeon for a complete evaluation. It is normal to have lymph nodes there, but it is unusual for them to remain large enough to be felt for an extended period of time. Skin cancer and other possible causes should be ruled out, and an ENT specialist is the best type of doctor to consider all the possibilities. Best of luck.
1 UpVoted this answer
A lymph node biopsy may be indicated, but many factors should be considered. These include recent ailments, length of time the nodule has been swollen, other health issues you may have, and any other health issues in your family (among other factors). Tehre is no way to be certain whether the nodule is benign or a lesion of concern without a biopsy, but a swollen nodule or lymph node alone does not always mandate a biopsy. Given your history of Hashimotos thyroiditis, it may be prudent to attain a biopsy to rule out anything worrisome. Good luck!
it will be better to have schedulled a biopsy to make sure it is benign.
The incidence of metastasis to the Perifacial or buccinator lymph nodes is 35% in carcinoma of the oral cavity and 8% in carcinoma of the oropharynx. Therefore, it is imperative that carcinoma be ruled out. You need a very detailed history and physical examination and possibly a magnetic resonance image to make sure there are no suspicious lesions present and to differentiate the lymph node from the parotid gland. I would suggest you consult with a board-certified otolaryngologist who specializes in head and neck cancer. I have experience in this area since I am a board-certified otolaryngologist and a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. A magnetic resonance image may be required to make sure the mass is not part of the parotid gland. It has been a long time since you have had the mass and if it does start to grow I believe it would be mandatory to have it removed. After the aforementioned meticulous physical examination and radiological work up either needle biopsy or surgical biopsy may be warranted after observing the mass for a period of time. Lymph nodes less than 1 cm are difficult to needle biopsy. If this node grows to the size of 1 cm I would definitely have it needle biopsied. In my personal opinion I would not wait too long and I would want to know what the lymph node represents sooner than later. Best of luck in your endeavors.
this decision should be made after consultation with an ENT, general surgeon or plastic surgeon. In general if your lymph node decreases in size over the next several weeks it might be appropriate just to follow it clinically. On the other hand if it remains the same size or grows without an obvious explanation than a biopsy for definitive diagnosis is recommended.
More likely than not this represents part of the PAROTID GLAND...Consequently it is either of a lymphatic component or represents a benign mixed tumor.....A plastic Surgeon with Head and Neck Surgery background, or an ENT with the same qualification should be consulted and surgically excised...
You should have a consultation with a board certified Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck surgeon
I always advise a second opinion so that you and your Hean&Neck surgeon can decide on the treatment on choice.
Best of luck which is yours if you follow the above recommendation. Remember-in medicine/surgery there are no guarantees
I always advise a second opinion so that you and your Hean&Neck surgeon can decide on the treatment on choice.
Best of luck which is yours if you follow the above recommendation. Remember-in medicine/surgery there are no guarantees
You should have a consultation with a board certified Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck surgeon
I always advise a second opinion so that you and your Hean&Neck surgeon can decide on the treatment on choice.
Best of luck which is yours if you follow the above recommendation. Remember-in medicine/surgery there are no guarantees
I always advise a second opinion so that you and your Hean&Neck surgeon can decide on the treatment on choice.
Best of luck which is yours if you follow the above recommendation. Remember-in medicine/surgery there are no guarantees