A 27-year-old member asked:
Does an x-ray detect a tumor/cancer in the neck?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in

Dr. Mitchell Kamravaanswered
Radiation Oncology 17 years experience
Not exactly: X-rays help you detect abnormalities such as a mass that is not normal but they do not tell you what that mass is. In order to figure this out you need to have a biopsy. The tissue obtained at the time of a biopsy is then reviewed by a pathologist who can help identify whether the mass is consistent with cancer. Other imaging tests like ct scans or MRI can be more helpful in delineating anatomy.
6.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Della Howellanswered
Pediatric Hematology and Oncology 24 years experience
Maybe: If it's just a plain / regular x-ray study, many cancers in the neck will not be picked up using this method. However, a cat scan (ct), MRI or ultrasound study may be more likely to detect a cancer in the neck.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Aug 6, 2019
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.