Neck Masses

A neck mass is a common childhood condition that involves swelling that changes the shape of the neck.  Neck masses do not usually cause any symptoms and often disappear on their own. 

They may be caused by:

• Enlarged lymph node caused by infection
• Inflamed or infected cyst
• Trauma
• Inflammation of salivary glands
• Tumor

Neck masses caused by infection can be painful and may require antibiotic treatment.  Those that last more than a few weeks should undergo diagnostic testing.