Lymph Nodes
Neck Masses
Thyroid & Parathyroid Disorders
Salivary Glands
Cancer
As ENT physicians we specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the head and neck. This includes the medical and surgical management of many problems that affect the delicate structures of the neck.
Lymph nodes are located throughout the body. They function like filters. When the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged there is usually some sort of inflammation responsible such as a sore throat or even acne. They can however be enlarged in the presence of a tumor, and it is our job to sort out the situation and make testing and treatment recommendations.
Back to top
Neck masses are fairly common findings and are often the source of significant concern. These may occur in children of all ages as well as in adults. There are a variety of possible causes. Neck masses may be caused by infectious and/or inflammatory diseases which result in swollen glands. They may also be congenital cysts which have been present since birth, traumatic in origin (i.e., caused by an injury) or neoplastic disease.
Whatever the cause of the neck mass, a thorough evaluation by a Board Certified ear, nose and throat doctor (an Otolaryngologist) is recommended.
Diagnosing the neck mass can sometimes be made after a simple history and a complete physical examination has been completed in the physician’s office. If additional testing is required it will be arranged. Once the diagnosis has been obtained, your doctor will discuss this and treatment options with you.
Fortunately most neck masses are benign (non-cancerous). Nonetheless it is imperative that all persistent neck masses be evaluated by an Otolaryngologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Back to top
THYROID & PARATHYROID DISORDERS
The thyroid gland is located in the center of the neck above the sternum. It functions to regulate your metabolism. Most problems relate to thyroid glands that work too hard or not hard enough and these can be helped with medication for the most part. Many times, patients will develop nodules or lumps in their thyroid gland. Needle aspiration, usually done in the office but sometimes with radiology assistance, can usually tell if the nodule is suspicious. If it is concerning, surgical removal is something that we offer as well
The parathyroid glands are located in the neck attached to the thyroid gland. They are partially responsible for controlling the level of calcium in the bloodstream, bones and muscles. Many times these glands malfunction and require either medical or surgical treatment. If the calcium level in your blood is too high symptoms such as tiredness, muscle aches, nausea, and mood changes can occur. A simple blood test is all that is required to diagnose parathyroid disease.
Back to top
SALIVARY GLAND DISORDERS
There are four major glands that produce saliva. The parotid glands are in front of and slightly below the ear on both sides. The submandibular glands are underneath the jaw on both sides. In addition there are hundreds of tiny minor salivary glands throughout the mouth and throat. The major glands can occasionally get infected and swell and need antibiotics, sometimes they can develop stones that are similar to kidney stones, theoretically. Tumors, which are mostly benign but occasionally cancerous, may also develop.
When lumps of the salivary gland develop, a diagnostic workup will be completed after which, medical treatments and surgical options (when indicated) will be discussed.
Back to top
CANCER
Cancers involving the structures of the head and neck are actually very common. This is especially true in people who use tobacco. Tumors can be seen in the mouth, throat and voice box all secondary to tobacco products. Cancer also can be seen in the saliva glands, thyroid, sinuses and lymph nodes such as in lymphoma.
If a person develops such a problem, treatment will frequently involve several different types of medical doctors such as medical oncologist, radiation therapist, family doctors and others. We routinely will organize such a multifaceted approach to care in order to streamline the evaluation and treatment process for patients.
Back to top
If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, |
