Answer:
Lumps in the neck represent a variety of pathologies. They require a careful history to be taken, a thorough examination of the lump and the associated drainages from the upper aerodigestive tract. Finally appropriate radiological investigations by a radiologist who is knowledgeable in this complex area should be undertaken and samples may be taken for further specialist investigation by a cytologist in order to come to a correct diagnosis.
This expert team approach makes the diagnosis of the lump accurate and aids putting together an appropriate plan for the patient with a swollen lump in the neck.
To learn more about neck lumps please see the following articles by Mr Francis Vaz.