The neck occasionally develops lumps. The majority of neck lumps are benign, but an otolaryngologist should be consulted because the neck might develop malignancy. A neck lump should generally be carefully investigated by a board-certified otolaryngologist if it continues for more than 10 to 14 days. A complete history and physical exam will be performed to start off this evaluation. A flexible laryngeal endoscopy may also be carried out. It may be necessary to perform a CT scan or MRI of the soft tissues of the neck. If indicated by the physical exam and imaging, a neck mass needle biopsy may be necessary.
