My 13 year old daughter has a lump on the side of her neck. At first we thought she had been stung it has a pin head type look and is very very sore. Her Dr. is trying medication first and then if that does not work on to a specialist and have it removed. It is getting larger and sorer by the day. This is not a sign for cancer is it? To be that sore what do you think it might be?
Hi, Thanks for writing in. Lumps on sides of neck in child Chat Doctor.  When scratched with finger nails, they become infected and painful. Swellings can also occur in other infections like tuberculosis and sore throat. Rarely lymph nodal swelling may occur due to diseases like lymphoma and cancer. If the swelling decreases on taking antibiotics, it is most likely infective. If it persists, your doctor is right in doing a FNAC/ biopsy to confirm diagnosis. It will only be a needle prick test, and please do not worry.Meanwhile you should get concerned if there is significant weight loss, continuous low grade fever and swelling in other parts of the body. This may indicate something serious. If these features are not there, there is no need to worry. You must however completely evaluate the swelling and take proper treatment at the earliest. Hope this helps