A member asked:
Hi, my 22 month old boy has a bump, a small ball, on the left side of his neck. could it be a lymph node?
3 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in
Dr. James Fergusonanswered
Pediatrics 47 years experience
Usually is: Lymph nodes are located throughout the body & generally noticable in exposed areas like the neck. They are usually pea sized at rest and enlarged when stimulated by bug bites, dermatitis, drainage or infection. They rarely can become damaged by infection & grow to golf ball size & need drainage or removal. Most enlarge and later shrink back down within a 3 wk cycle unless chronically stimulated.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. David Astrachananswered
ENT and Head and Neck Surgery 38 years experience
Probably: Reactive lymph nodes are extremely common in children and almost always are nothing to worry about. You can make a routine appointment with your child's pediatrician for an exam but an isolated enlarged node in a child without other significant symptoms is not an emergency.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Anifat Balogunanswered
ENT and Head and Neck Surgery 30 years experience
Could be, or.....: It depends on location, size, depth under the skin, changes in skin overlying bump and associated pain. How long has it been present?Is it soft or firm? Has he been ill or did he have an infection recently? A solitary enlarged lymph node is a bit concerning than the multiple enlarged nodes seen in many toddlers. Start with a check up by your pediatrician.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Gary Alder commented
Dentistry 48 years experience
Infection, neoplasm, brachial cleft cyst are my initial thoughts but thourgh exam is needed asap.
Aug 4, 2012
Last updated Jun 10, 2013
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.