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Swollen Lymph Node Could It Be Cancer
Question: 58yo, M, healthy. A week ago noticed a bump behind right ear. Lump size ~1cm, firm. Can be tender to touch. Went to ENT who said it was swollen lymph node, thoroughly examined for other enlarged nodes, infection, lesions/tumours , and found none. I have no other symptoms. Was told to wait 3 weeks, and if node stays biopsy it. Now a week passed, lump is still there, didn't change much. I am worried about cancer. Should I be ?
The ENT described it as "Probable postauricular lymph node"
Brief Answer:
Please see the answer
Detailed Answer:
Hi, thank you for posting your query.I have gone through your query.
There can be following possibilities looking to the position of swelling:
1.)Lymph node enlargement.When it was tender,there was inflammation inside it.After taking medicine,if pain has gone,then inflammation is resolved but it might take some more time for lymph node enlargement to reduce in its size.
2.)Swelling in Parotid gland .
It would be better to go for a biopsy or FNAC(fine needle aspiration cytology), to know the exact cause of swelling.
Thanks
Please see the answer
Detailed Answer:
Hi, thank you for posting your query.I have gone through your query.
There can be following possibilities looking to the position of swelling:
1.)Lymph node enlargement.When it was tender,there was inflammation inside it.After taking medicine,if pain has gone,then inflammation is resolved but it might take some more time for lymph node enlargement to reduce in its size.
2.)Swelling in Parotid gland .
It would be better to go for a biopsy or FNAC(fine needle aspiration cytology), to know the exact cause of swelling.
Thanks
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Answered by
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