The neck is the part of the body between the lower jaw and the collarbones that connects the head to the torso. The neck contains part of the spine, muscles, the large vessels that carry blood to and from the brain, sensory and motor nerves, lymph nodes and lymphatic channels, the pharynx, the larynx, the upper parts of the windpipe and esophagus, the thyroid gland, skin and soft tissue.
Congenital neck masses may develop when neck structures form incorrectly or incompletely:
- Thyroglossal duct cyst
- Branchial cysts
- Teratoma
- Dermoid cyst
- Hemangioma
- Lymphangioma
- Thymic masses
- Lymphangioma (cystic hygroma)
- Aneurysm
- Hemangioma
Almost all of them are benign. They are sometimes seen right after birth and sometimes in childhood. Rarely, they appear in adulthood.
The masses appear as swellings that can be seen or felt by hand. They are usually single, painless and mobile.
Certain tests are needed to determine where the mass originates and its characteristics. First, a neck ultrasound is performed, which allows a diagnosis in more than 80% of masses. If necessary, computed tomography or MRI is performed.
Except for hemangiomas, treatment is surgical removal. Hemangiomas disappear on their own in 90% of cases between the ages of 6 and 9.
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
