Adult Neck Mass: Investigations

Abstract

           Most neck masses of patients over 40 years old were susceptible to malignancy.  Good history taking and repeated physical examination were the two most important tools.  If a diagnosis was not able to make, special tests were necessary. In all 72 patients attended at Nakornping hospital between the years 2005-2007 were grouped by fine needle aspiration biopsy-FNAB for further investigation and treatment. Squamous cell carcinoma was identified by FNAB in 16 patients and their origins were further located by CT scan in 3 cases and 5 more cases by panendoscopy with quided biopsy.  FNAB was effective, safe and reduced the cost of unnecessary investigation.

Key words:      Neck mass unknown primary, fine needle aspiration biopsy