Hard small lump on the back of the neck

Lymph nodes can enlarge while the immune system responds to an infection near the scalp, ear, throat, or neck. A cyst may feel smooth and firm beneath the skin. Less commonly, a persistent neck mass can be associated with lymphoma, thyroid cancer, head and neck cancer, or cancer found after its original site is not immediately clear. A neck lump is not proof of cancer.

Arrange an appointment when the lump remains present, becomes larger, feels fixed, or is not explained by a recent infection. Do not squeeze or repeatedly press it. Note when it appeared, whether it changes, and any fever, night sweating, weight change, sore throat, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing. Assessment may include an examination, ultrasound, blood tests, or a sample when appropriate.

Seek urgent medical help for difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, spreading redness, or marked weakness. Contact a clinician soon for a firm lump that persists, unexplained fever, drenching night sweats, or unexplained weight loss. These features guide the urgency of evaluation; they do not establish a diagnosis.

Ask which structures may be causing the lump, whether its location suggests a lymph node or skin lesion, and what changes should prompt faster review. You can also ask whether imaging or sampling is needed and how you will receive the result.