Seeking Insights on Neck Growth
I am a 32-year-old male experiencing a concerning growth on my neck that has persisted for approximately 6 to 8 months. Initially, the growth appeared as a dry wart. After consulting with my physician, I was given a prescription for steroid cream in hopes of reducing it. Recently, this area has become swollen, and I have been dealing with significant itching and discomfort. I am currently awaiting a consultation with a dermatologist to further investigate this issue. I can’t help but worry that it may be cancerous. Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 4:30:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about a growth on your neck, especially with changes like swelling and discomfort. It's good that you’re awaiting a consultation with a dermatologist, as they specialize in skin conditions and will be able to provide a thorough evaluation.
The fact that the growth initially presented as a dry wart and has since changed suggests that it needs careful observation and potentially further investigation to rule out any serious conditions. While it’s natural to worry about cancer, many skin growths are benign (non-cancerous), and your discomfort is a critical aspect to address.
Explanation:
-
Initial Growth and Changes: Warts or growths on the skin can change in appearance due to various factors, including irritation, infection, or other skin conditions. The use of steroid cream aimed to reduce inflammation, but the persistence and changes you’re observing could indicate a need for further assessment.
-
Symptoms to Monitor: It's important to keep an eye on the growth for:
- Additional changes (e.g., color, size, shape)
- New symptoms (e.g., bleeding, crusting)
- Overall discomfort or worsening itching
Next Steps:
-
Keep a Symptom Diary: Note any additional changes or discomforts you experience, which can be useful information for your dermatologist.
-
Maintain Cleanliness: Ensure that the area is clean and avoid scratching, which can aggravate the growth and lead to infection.
-
Manage Itching: Over-the-counter antihistamines may help alleviate itching. Ensure your skin stays moisturized, which can also ease discomfort.
-
Stay Calm and Informed: Prepare for your upcoming dermatologist appointment by writing down your questions and concerns, including changes in the growth and what treatments you've tried.
-
Follow Up: After your consultation, follow the dermatologist's advice closely, whether it involves further tests or treatments.
Remember, while waiting can be anxiety-inducing, you're taking the right steps by seeking specialist care. Feel free to reach out with any further questions, and I'm here to support you through this process.
Related Questions
Seeking Insight on My Ultrasound Results
Age 25, female. I underwent an abdominal and pelvic ultrasound to investigate sporadic pelvic discomfort I’ve been experiencing. My contraceptive method is a combination pill. During the imaging, a structure was identified, described as a pocket of free fluid nestled between the intestinal loops. However, I have reservations about this interpretation, as the appearance seems less consistent with free fluid; it appears spherical and contains a hyperechoic speck, and it lacks a uniform hypo/anechoic pattern. I feel that the ultrasound lacked depth in its examination, and I would appreciate your perspective on this matter as well.
Support Needed for Knee Recovery (M24)
Hello, it’s M24 reaching out. Back on December 16, I received a diagnosis of Patellar and Quadricep tendinosis along with a sprained PCL, which recommended a rest period of six weeks. Seeking further guidance, I consulted another doctor on January 17, who reiterated the initial recommendation but suggested an adjustment to extend my rest for an additional 3-4 weeks. Now, as I enter the fourth week of recovery, my knee continues to feel swollen and lacks stability, although I have noticed a significant decrease in pain. At this point, I find myself at a loss for what to do next. Engaging in physical activities serves as my primary form of relief, and I fear that my mental well-being may have deteriorated even more than my physical condition. I would appreciate any guidance you might have to offer. Thank you!
Seeking Insights on Thyroid Biopsy Results
I’m a 21-year-old female with no notable thyroid conditions previously, aside from discovering a 3.6cm nodule recently. I received the results of my fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, which indicated that the findings are benign. However, the report mentioned the detection of Hurthle and follicular cells, which has caused a significant amount of concern for me. Considering that Hurthle cell carcinoma often goes undetected until surgical intervention, I’m anxious, particularly since biopsies can yield false benign results in approximately 25% of cases. If anyone has faced similar circumstances and can share insights or offer reassurance—understanding that I deal with considerable health anxiety, as I'm still feeling uneasy despite the benign diagnosis—I would greatly appreciate it. The details of the biopsy report are as follows: **THYROID NODULE DESCRIPTION, LEFT MID POLE, ULTRASOUND GUIDED FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION (THIN PREP AND DIRECT SMEARS)** **ADEQUACY:** Satisfactory for evaluation. **CATEGORY:** Benign **DIAGNOSIS:** The specimen reveals a high quantity of colloid, follicular cells, Hurthle cells, and hemosiderin-laden macrophages. These observations align with the characteristics of a benign follicular nodule exhibiting cystic degeneration.
Understanding Headaches After Extended Study Sessions
Age: 14 Gender: Male Height: 5'6" Weight: 75 kg Duration of Headache: 2 days Symptom Location: Eyebrows and back of the head Current Health Issues: None Medication: None I've noticed that after long hours of studying while wearing my headphones and listening to lo-fi music, I often experience headaches. The discomfort primarily occurs in my eyebrows and the back of my head, leaving me feeling extremely fatigued. Any insights on why this happens would be appreciated!
Dealing with Carpet Burns
I’m a 18-year-old male weighing 50kg, and I haven’t been taking any medications or experiencing any significant symptoms. A couple of weeks ago, I suffered a burn from a carpet that I suspect was a minor second-degree burn, if not a first-degree one, since there were no blisters present. Fortunately, as of two days ago, the burn has completely healed. However, the affected areas remain red where the scabs have now come off, and when I apply light pressure, the redness temporarily disappears. Despite the healing, the red marks haven't shown much improvement, and it's causing me some concern as they are located on my arm and make me feel somewhat self-conscious. Is there a way to expedite the fading of these marks, and what is the typical time frame for them to diminish?