Differential Diagnosis for a Lump Under the Chin
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Submandibular lymph node enlargement: This is a common and benign condition that can cause a lump under the chin. The lymph nodes in this area can become enlarged in response to minor infections or inflammation, and they often fluctuate in size.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Submandibular gland stone or obstruction: A stone or blockage in the submandibular gland can cause intermittent swelling under the chin, which may come and go without pain or tenderness.
- Cystic hygroma or branchial cleft cyst: These congenital anomalies can present as a lump under the chin, which may fluctuate in size.
- Thyroglossal duct cyst: A remnant of the thyroglossal duct can form a cyst under the chin, which may come and go without pain or tenderness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Metastatic cancer: Although rare, a lump under the chin can be a sign of metastatic cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma or lymphoma. It is essential to consider this possibility, especially in older adults or those with a history of cancer.
- Tuberculosis or other granulomatous infections: These infections can cause lymph node enlargement or abscesses under the chin, which may be painless and intermittent.
- Sarcoidosis: This autoimmune disease can cause lymph node enlargement and skin lesions, including under the chin.
Rare Diagnoses
- Ranula: A type of mucous cyst that can form under the chin, usually associated with the sublingual gland.
- Dermoid cyst: A congenital anomaly that can present as a lump under the chin, often containing hair, skin, or other tissue.
- Lipoma or other soft tissue tumors: Benign tumors that can grow under the chin, although they are less common in this location.