The ultrasound of the thyroid showed enlarged lymph nodes near neck area. what could this possibly be?

Hard to say.: It depends on how large the lymph nodes are, whether or not they are tender and how long they have been present. Tender, enlarged lymph nodes can be seen with viral or bacterial infections or inflammation. Non-tender enlarged nodes which don't go away after a month or two should be further investigated with MRI or ct and possible needle biopsy as they could indicate a more serious problem.