Halsknute

Halsknute is a Swedish term used to describe a lump or swelling in the neck region. In medical English, the term neck mass or neck lump is more common, and halsknute is primarily used in everyday language or in patient information.

Causes vary and can be benign or serious. Common benign causes include reactive lymphadenopathy from infections (throat, dental infections), thyroid nodules or goiter, and benign cysts such as thyroglossal duct cyst or branchial cleft cyst. Less commonly, salivary gland tumors, skin lesions, or vascular malformations may present as a neck lump. Malignant causes should also be considered, including thyroid cancer, lymphomas, or metastases from other cancers, especially in older adults or when the lump is hard, fixed, or rapidly enlarging and accompanied by weight loss or night sweats.

Evaluation requires clinical assessment by a clinician. Red flags include rapid growth, fixed mass, hard consistency, associated dysphagia, hoarseness, or systemic symptoms. The workup typically starts with a physical examination and an ultrasound, which can distinguish cystic from solid lesions. Cross-sectional imaging (CT or MRI) may be used if deeper or complex anatomy is suspected. Blood tests may include thyroid function tests. For persistent or suspicious nodules, fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) or referral to an ENT specialist is common.

Treatment and prognosis are cause-dependent. Infections are treated with appropriate antibiotics; cysts or nodules may require surgical removal or observation. Malignant lesions require oncologic or surgical treatment. Most halsknutor in children are benign and resolve, while risk of malignancy increases with age and concerning clinical features.