What Causes Supra-clavicular Nodes In Neck?

Posted on Tue, 5 May 2015

Question: Hi there. In the last couple of weeks, i noticed that i could feel a lymph node in my neck above my collarbone. I didnt think too much of it until i googled it. Now i am freaking out as i read that a swollen left supraclavicular lymph node is likely to be cancer. I am a 32 year old female. My other symptoms, which might not be related, include: i have noticed neck pain a bit lately; some headaches; some difficulty concentrating at work/brain fog. Is it normal to be able to feel my supraclavicular lymph node??? Thanks in advance.

Answered by Dr. Rishi (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
It could be due to many other reasons. Dont worry.

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX
Please do not worry,
What you have read is not wrong but all supra-clavicular nodes or as we call Virchows nodes are not malignant. Also, we dont know whether it is a lymph node or something else.
I suggest you consult a Surgeon who can examine you and let you know what it is. If it is a lymph node, then you can get an FNAC done in which they insert a small needle into the swelling and see it under a microscope and tell what it is likely to be depending on the cells seen in it.
The other symptoms you mention are unlikely to be related to the swelling.
So, do not worry and relax.
But, please see a Surgeon who would be able to examine you and advice appropriate investigations as outlined above.
Take care,
Dr Rishi, New XXXXXXX XXXXXXX

Note: For further queries related to kidney problems Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj