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What Causes A Hard Immovable Lump At Top Of The Neck?

Posted on Fri, 9 May 2014

Question: I noticed a hard immovable lump at top of neck, just above the hairline about 5 months ago along with constant headaches covering whole top of head, lump itself isn't sore but when I press on the lump it makes headache worse right across forehead from temple to temple. Lump is increasing slowly in size. What could this be?

Answered by Dr. Ashish Verma (2 hours later)

Brief Answer: deemoid or neuroma or lymph node Detailed Answer: Hi, Thanks for writing to HCM. That can either be a neuroma or schwanoma or even a lymph node or dermoid. You need to see a surgeon for a physical examination of the swelling, followed by a needle biopsy of it and an xray neck to look for calcification and extent. Further management will depend upon the above findings and needle biopsy report. Hope, i have been helpful. Regards Dr. Ashish Verma

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Ashish Verma (16 minutes later)

The lump isnt red or "puss" like on the outside, seems to be under the skin with no effect on apperance to skin on outside, would a simple lymph node increase in size and cause the headaches even though its been roughly 5 months?

Answered by Dr. Ashish Verma (53 minutes later)

Brief Answer: it can... Detailed Answer: Hi, Yes a simple lymph node can cause that if it has malignant potentials. Other possibility is of a dermoid which is also having an intracranial component. Even a simple sebaceous cyst compressing a nerve can lead to pain. Since the differentials are varied, a physical examination is a must. I advise you not to ignore this lump and visit a surgeon promptly. Regards Dr. Ashish Verma

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad