Differential Diagnosis for Swelling Below the Chin
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Submandibular lymphadenitis: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the common occurrence of lymph node enlargement in the submandibular region, often caused by viral or bacterial infections.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Submandibular gland infection or sialadenitis: Inflammation of the submandibular gland can cause swelling below the chin, often accompanied by pain and difficulty swallowing.
- Cystic hygroma or branchial cleft cyst: Congenital anomalies that can present as swellings in the neck, including below the chin.
- Lipoma or other soft tissue tumors: Benign tumors that can grow in the submental region, causing swelling.
- Dermoid cyst: A type of cyst that can occur in the midline of the neck, including below the chin.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Angioedema: A potentially life-threatening condition that can cause rapid swelling of the face, neck, and airways, often requiring emergency intervention.
- Submandibular abscess: A collection of pus in the submandibular space that can lead to severe complications, such as airway obstruction, if not promptly treated.
- Thyroid gland pathology (e.g., thyroid cancer): Although less common, thyroid gland abnormalities can present with swelling in the anterior neck, including below the chin.
Rare Diagnoses
- Ranula: A type of mucous cyst that can occur in the floor of the mouth and extend into the submental region, causing swelling.
- Plunging ranula: A variant of ranula that extends into the neck, causing swelling below the chin.
- Ectopic thyroid tissue: Abnormal thyroid tissue located outside of the normal thyroid gland, which can cause swelling in the neck, including below the chin.
- Lymphangioma: A rare congenital anomaly that can cause swelling in the neck, including below the chin, due to abnormal lymphatic vessel development.