Neck lumps

Abstract

Neck lumps are commonly encountered by GPs, with 15% of all patients presenting to GPs having an upper respiratory tract or head and neck complaint. In addition, between 1990 and 2006, the incidence of cancers relating to the head and neck increased. These include primary malignancies of the oral cavity, salivary glands, oropharyngeal mucosa and thyroid gland. It is therefore important that GPs are able to recognise red flag symptoms and signs suggestive of these cancers, as well as being able to effectively manage the more common conditions that may present with head or neck lumps that do not require urgent referral to secondary care. This article will consider this as well as the learning outcomes detailed in the curriculum box to provide a base of information that GPs can draw on to aid in the diagnosis of neck lumps.