Palpable neck swelling that does not disappear should be checked by a specialist.

If the cervical lymph nodes are inflamed or if there is an abnormal growth in the cervical lymph nodes, this usually manifests itself in an enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes. The symptoms are often only temporary. Sometimes the cervical lymph nodes grow very quickly and do not shrink in size. It is then advisable to carry out a surgical clarification of the cervical lymph nodes by removing a cervical lymph node. The removed cervical lymph node is sent to a pathologist who carries out a histological examination under a microscope. The type and location of the cervical lymph node is decisive for the question of whether the operation can be performed under local anesthesia or anesthesia, on an outpatient or inpatient basis.