What is the cause of a soft, tender lump on my neck near a lymph gland while taking Lenvima (lenvatinib) for endometrial cancer?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 15, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

I strongly recommend that you contact your oncologist immediately to evaluate the soft tender lump on your neck, as it could be related to your endometrial cancer or a side effect of Lenvima (lenvatinib) 1. Given your current treatment with Lenvima for endometrial cancer, it is crucial to investigate any new symptoms promptly. Your doctor will likely order several tests, including:

  • A physical examination to assess the lump and surrounding area
  • An ultrasound or CT scan of the neck to visualize the lump and determine its size and characteristics
  • Blood tests to check for infection or changes in your cancer markers
  • A fine needle aspiration (FNA) or biopsy to determine if the lump contains cancer cells

The tenderness could indicate inflammation or infection, but given your cancer history, it's essential to rule out metastasis or recurrence 1. Early evaluation of any new lumps during cancer treatment is vital for proper management and potentially adjusting your treatment plan if necessary. The NCCN Guidelines for Endometrial Cancer emphasize the importance of comprehensive genomic profiling and molecular characterization of the tumor, which may guide treatment decisions 1. In your case, a thorough investigation of the lump is necessary to determine the best course of action and ensure your safety. Don't delay seeking medical attention, as prompt evaluation and management can significantly impact your outcomes.

From the FDA Drug Label

The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Soft Tender Lump on the Neck Near a Gland

  • A soft tender lump on the neck near a gland can be caused by various factors, including infection, inflammation, or cancer 2.
  • As you are currently on Lenvima for endometrial cancer, it is essential to monitor your condition closely and report any new symptoms to your healthcare provider.

Labs and Tests

  • To diagnose the cause of the lump, your healthcare provider may order various labs and tests, such as:
    • Imaging tests (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI) to visualize the lump and surrounding tissues.
    • Blood tests to check for infection, inflammation, or cancer markers.
    • Biopsy to examine the tissue sample from the lump.
  • Studies have shown that Lenvima can cause various side effects, including hypertension, proteinuria, diarrhea, and delayed wound healing 3, 2.
  • In patients with recurrent endometrial cancer, Lenvima has been shown to have modest antitumor activity and is generally well-tolerated, with a safety profile consistent with previous studies 4.

Monitoring and Follow-up

  • Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
  • Your healthcare provider may also monitor your labs and test results to ensure that your treatment is effective and not causing any significant side effects 5, 4.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.