Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Tissue Mass In Throat Be Cancerous
Question: I have seen an ENT for a tissue mass in my throat. She sent me for a CTI scan. I got the results back and I want to know what they mean but they can't get me in for a while.
The finding says: Cervical Soft Tissues: There are small lymph nodes in the supra- and infrahyoid neck that are not enlarged by size criteria and are likely reactive. No lymph nodes with suspicious morphologic or enhancement characteristics are identified. No soft tissue masses are identified in the neck. Soft tissue density seen along the dermal surface overlying the left hemimandible measuring 3 mm (image 270, series 3). This likely represents a mole or skin tag.
But the impression says: 1. No fluid collection or mass lesion is seen in the cervical soft tissues. Scattered small lymph nodes are seen noted which appear to be enlarged by size criteria.
So I am confused on whether my lymph nodes are enlarged or not. And what does it mean if they are enlarged?
The finding says: Cervical Soft Tissues: There are small lymph nodes in the supra- and infrahyoid neck that are not enlarged by size criteria and are likely reactive. No lymph nodes with suspicious morphologic or enhancement characteristics are identified. No soft tissue masses are identified in the neck. Soft tissue density seen along the dermal surface overlying the left hemimandible measuring 3 mm (image 270, series 3). This likely represents a mole or skin tag.
But the impression says: 1. No fluid collection or mass lesion is seen in the cervical soft tissues. Scattered small lymph nodes are seen noted which appear to be enlarged by size criteria.
So I am confused on whether my lymph nodes are enlarged or not. And what does it mean if they are enlarged?
Brief Answer:
Reactive lymph nodes in your case is totally harmless
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
After carefully reading the report, I believe it to be a perfectly normal study.
Within our bodies, lymph nodes are like policemen. Every time there is an infection or inflammation in the area that these nodes drain, they enlarge to indicate that something wrong is going on. According to the study in your case, some of the nodes exhibit reactive changes, but the rest appear to be normal. An old infection, inflammation such as sore throat, or dental problems could be the cause of this.
These nodes only raise red flags when they grow larger than 2 cm. Your report indicates that every node is well within the typical range. Therefore, there is no reason to be concerned about them.
I hope this answers your query. Revert if you have any follow-up queries.
Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon
Reactive lymph nodes in your case is totally harmless
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
After carefully reading the report, I believe it to be a perfectly normal study.
Within our bodies, lymph nodes are like policemen. Every time there is an infection or inflammation in the area that these nodes drain, they enlarge to indicate that something wrong is going on. According to the study in your case, some of the nodes exhibit reactive changes, but the rest appear to be normal. An old infection, inflammation such as sore throat, or dental problems could be the cause of this.
These nodes only raise red flags when they grow larger than 2 cm. Your report indicates that every node is well within the typical range. Therefore, there is no reason to be concerned about them.
I hope this answers your query. Revert if you have any follow-up queries.
Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon
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. Raju A.T
Answered by
Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty
Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist
Practicing since :2001
Answered : 2540 Questions
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
