ULTRASONOGRAPHIC EVALUATION;

NECK MASSES

Abstract

Objectives: To assess common presenting complaints and the role of ultrasound in evaluating neck masses in pediatric and
adult population. Design: Cross sectional. Setting: Khyber X-Ray, 7 Khyber Medical Centre, Dabgari Gardens, Peshawar. Period: July 2011
to December 2011. Material and Methods: Data from patients presenting for evaluation of a neck mass was analyzed for presenting
complaints and ultrasound findings according to objectives of the study. Results: In total 105 cases were included in the study. The mean age
of patients was 36.8 years with a male to female ratio of 1:2.1. The age wise categorization included pediatric population (10.5%) adult
population (89.5%). Both painful and painless neck swellings were common presenting complaints in pediatric population with cervical
lymphadenopathy being the most common ultrasound finding. Among Adult males painless neck swelling was the most common presenting
complaint with cervical lymphadenopathy followed by Multinodular goiter being most common ultrasound findings. Most common presenting
complaint in Adult females was painless neck swelling with Multinodular goiter being most common ultrasound finding. Conclusions: Neck
Masses are commonly encountered in all age groups especially pediatric population and adult females, Ultrasound is a useful and safe
modality in evaluation of neck masses.