Differential Diagnosis for 16 Year Old Female with Left Sided Neck Swelling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Benign neck cyst or thyroglossal duct cyst: This is a common cause of neck swelling in adolescents, often presenting as a painless, slowly enlarging mass. The absence of fever and systemic symptoms supports a benign etiology.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Lymphadenopathy due to viral or bacterial infection: Although the patient does not have a fever, lymphadenopathy can occur without systemic symptoms, especially in the context of a viral infection.
- Thyroid nodule or goiter: Thyroid abnormalities can cause neck swelling and are relatively common in adolescents. A thyroid nodule or goiter could present unilaterally.
- Branchial cleft cyst: These congenital anomalies can present as a neck mass, often becoming apparent during adolescence.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignant lymphoma: Although less common, lymphoma can present with lymphadenopathy and must be considered to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Metastatic disease (e.g., from a head and neck primary): Rare in adolescents, but critical to diagnose early for effective management.
- Tuberculosis lymphadenitis: Can present with neck swelling and may not always have systemic symptoms like fever, especially in its early stages.
Rare Diagnoses
- Carotid body tumor: A rare, usually benign tumor that can cause neck swelling.
- Paraganglioma: A rare neuroendocrine neoplasm that can occur in the neck.
- Castleman disease: A rare lymphoproliferative disorder that can present with lymphadenopathy.
Each of these diagnoses has a different set of implications for management and prognosis, highlighting the importance of a thorough diagnostic workup.