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A member asked:

What is a lump about 3/4" around on the back of neck, base of skull? your guess cancer or a cyst? 76-year old male

1 doctor answer2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Steve Martinez
Breast Surgery 30 years experience
Possibilities: It is possible to have a swollen lymph node in this region (called occipital nodes). It could also be a cyst such as an epidermal or sebaceous cyst. Another option is a (usually) benign fatty tumor called a lipoma. If it is getting larger or is tender/painful, or associated with other similar lumps, i would get it checked out by your doctor.
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Last updated Jul 21, 2017

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