Differential Diagnosis for Non-Movable Anterior Neck Mass

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Thyroid Nodule or Goiter: This is the most common cause of an anterior neck mass. The thyroid gland is located in the anterior neck, and nodules or goiters (enlargements of the thyroid gland) can present as non-movable masses in this area.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Lymphadenopathy: Enlarged lymph nodes in the anterior neck can present as non-movable masses. This could be due to infection, inflammation, or malignancy.
• Branchial Cleft Cyst: A congenital anomaly that can present as a non-movable mass in the anterior neck, typically along the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
• Dermoid Cyst: A type of teratoma that can occur in the anterior neck, presenting as a non-movable mass.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Although less common, thyroid cancer can present as a non-movable anterior neck mass. It is crucial to consider this diagnosis to ensure timely treatment.
• Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma: A rare but aggressive form of thyroid cancer that can present as a rapidly growing, non-movable neck mass.
• Lymphoma: Both Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can cause lymphadenopathy in the anterior neck, which may be non-movable.

Rare Diagnoses

• Thyroglossal Duct Cyst: A congenital anomaly that occurs during the development of the thyroid gland, presenting as a midline neck mass.
• Carotid Body Tumor: A rare, usually benign tumor of the carotid body that can present as a non-movable mass in the anterior neck.
• Paraganglioma: A rare neuroendocrine tumor that can occur in the anterior neck, often presenting as a non-movable mass.