{"id":7083,"date":"2024-04-15T23:49:52","date_gmt":"2024-04-15T23:49:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/%d8%ac%d8%b1%d8%a7%d8%ad%d8%a7%d8%aa-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b1%d8%a3%d8%b3-%d9%88%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b1%d9%82%d8%a8%d8%a9-%d9%84%d9%84%d8%a3%d8%b7%d9%81%d8%a7%d9%84\/"},"modified":"2026-11-11T11:33:35","modified_gmt":"2026-11-11T11:33:35","slug":"%d8%ac%d8%b1%d8%a7%d8%ad%d8%a7%d8%aa-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b1%d8%a3%d8%b3-%d9%88%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b1%d9%82%d8%a8%d8%a9-%d9%84%d9%84%d8%a3%d8%b7%d9%81%d8%a7%d9%84","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/%d8%ac%d8%b1%d8%a7%d8%ad%d8%a7%d8%aa-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b1%d8%a3%d8%b3-%d9%88%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b1%d9%82%d8%a8%d8%a9-%d9%84%d9%84%d8%a3%d8%b7%d9%81%d8%a7%d9%84\/","title":{"rendered":"Pediatric Head and Neck Surgery"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Children can develop a wide range of conditions affecting the head and neck. Although some of these conditions are uncommon in childhood, accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment play an important role in achieving the best possible outcomes. Pediatric head and neck surgery requires specialized expertise that takes into account the small size of anatomical structures, the delicate nature of nerves and blood vessels, and the child&#8217;s ongoing growth and development.<\/p>\n<p>With his experience in head and neck tumor surgery and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgery, Dr. Mohamed Adel treats various head and neck conditions in children, including benign and malignant tumors, rare conditions, and complex surgical cases. He provides the necessary facilities for examination, diagnosis, and surgical treatment tailored to each child&#8217;s individual needs.<\/p>\n<h2>Head Lymph Nodes in Children<\/h2>\n<p>Lymph nodes are an important part of the immune system. They are located in several areas of the head and neck, including behind the ears, beneath the jaw, at the back of the head, and along both sides of the neck. These nodes help filter lymphatic fluid and fight infection. As a result, they may become enlarged when a child develops an infection of the scalp, ear, or teeth.<\/p>\n<p>Lymph nodes are also found at the back of the head, near the occipital region. Common causes of swelling in this area include scalp infections, wounds, and nearby infections. However, persistent or increasing enlargement requires medical evaluation by a specialist in pediatric head and neck surgery to determine the underlying cause.<\/p>\n<h2>Neck Lymph Nodes in Children<\/h2>\n<p>Enlarged cervical lymph nodes in children are often a normal immune response to infections of the throat, tonsils, or nose. Their size usually decreases gradually after the infection has been treated. This section explains the causes of head and neck lymph node enlargement, how to monitor it, and when persistent swelling or changes in the lymph nodes require evaluation by a specialist.<\/p>\n<h2>Head and Neck Lymph Node Enlargement in Children<\/h2>\n<p>Most children experience enlarged lymph nodes at some point during childhood. In the majority of cases, this is caused by common infections affecting the throat, tonsils, or nose. Such enlargement is generally not dangerous. Treating the underlying infection is usually sufficient, and the lymph nodes typically begin to decrease in size over the following days.<\/p>\n<p>The main concern arises in cases where the enlargement may indicate a more serious condition and requires further investigation or monitoring. Errors can occur in both directions: some children may undergo unnecessary biopsies or surgical removal despite having no indication for additional intervention, while other children may have warning signs or symptoms of lymphoma involving the neck lymph nodes without receiving the necessary investigations and diagnostic procedures.<\/p>\n<p>In general, enlarged cervical lymph nodes in children are not usually a cause for alarm, but they should still be medically assessed and treated by a pediatric head and neck surgery consultant, Dr. Mohamed Adel. Failure to treat even minor infections at an early stage may allow the infection to worsen and develop into an abscess, which may require surgical intervention.<\/p>\n<h2>Different Cases of Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Children: Images<\/h2>\n<p>The following images illustrate different cases of enlarged cervical lymph nodes in children. These may result from common infections, such as throat or tonsil infections, or from other causes that require medical evaluation. The appearance and location of the swelling vary from one child to another. Therefore, its cause cannot be determined from an image alone; diagnosis depends on clinical examination, associated symptoms, and the necessary investigations.<\/p>\n<h3>Benign Cervical Lymph Node Enlargement Caused by Tonsillitis and Throat Infection<\/h3>\n<p>This case illustrates benign enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes resulting from tonsillitis and a throat infection, which are among the common causes of lymph node enlargement in children. Tonsillitis may be accompanied by a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and redness or swelling of the tonsils. The lymph nodes usually begin to decrease in size once the underlying infection has been properly diagnosed and treated.<\/p>\n<h3>Malignant Cervical Lymph Node Enlargement Caused by Lymphoma<\/h3>\n<p>The image shows a diagnosed case of malignant cervical lymph node enlargement caused by lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects lymphocytes.<\/p>\n<p>One of the most notable symptoms of lymphoma involving the neck lymph nodes in children is the appearance of a lump that is often painless and does not decrease in size over several weeks, or continues to grow. However, lymphoma cannot be diagnosed based on the appearance of the swelling alone. Clinical examination, appropriate investigations, and a biopsy when necessary are required.<\/p>\n<h3>Neck Abscess Caused by Severe Throat and Lymph Node Infection<\/h3>\n<p>The image illustrates a neck abscess that developed following the worsening of a severe infection involving the throat and lymph nodes. It may appear as a painful swelling accompanied by skin redness. This condition requires prompt medical evaluation. Treatment may include antibiotics, with surgical drainage of the abscess when a collection of pus requires it.<\/p>\n<h2>Images of Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Children Caused by Conditions Other Than Common Infections or Cancer<\/h2>\n<p>Several other conditions may cause cervical lymph node enlargement in children, apart from common infections and malignant tumors. These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Benign lymph node tumors.<\/li>\n<li>Tuberculosis, which may cause lymph node enlargement, particularly in the neck.<\/li>\n<li>Immune system disorders.<\/li>\n<li>Certain genetic syndromes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A pediatric head and neck surgeon determines the cause of the enlargement after clinical examination and the necessary laboratory tests or imaging studies. These conditions cannot be distinguished based on the appearance or location of the lymph nodes alone.<\/p>\n<h3>Cervical Lymph Node Enlargement Caused by a Benign Tumor<\/h3>\n<p>The image shows enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes caused by a benign tumor. It may be difficult to distinguish this condition from other causes of lymph node enlargement through clinical examination alone. Diagnosis therefore depends on assessing the size and nature of the mass, using imaging studies, and performing a biopsy when necessary. The doctor then determines whether the condition requires monitoring or surgical removal.<\/p>\n<h3>Cervical Lymph Node Enlargement in a Child with Tuberculosis<\/h3>\n<p>Tuberculosis can affect the lymph nodes and cause them to enlarge, as illustrated in this case. Other associated symptoms may include fever, night sweats, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Diagnosis relies on clinical examination, tuberculosis tests, and imaging studies, with a lymph node biopsy when necessary. The primary treatment involves completing the prescribed course of tuberculosis medication according to the treatment plan determined by the doctor.<\/p>\n<h3>Benign Cervical Lymph Node Tumor Associated with a Rare Immune Disorder<\/h3>\n<p>Some rare immune disorders may cause lymph node enlargement in children due to the accumulation of white blood cells within the lymph nodes. The image illustrates one such case. It requires appropriate clinical assessment and laboratory investigations. A biopsy may also be necessary to determine the nature of the enlargement and rule out other causes before selecting the appropriate treatment.<\/p>\n<h2>Thyroid Problems and Tumors in Children<\/h2>\n<p>Although thyroid tumors are uncommon in children, they can develop at an early age and may be either benign or malignant. Thyroid cancer represents a considerable proportion of the malignant tumors diagnosed during childhood.<\/p>\n<p>Diagnosing thyroid tumors in children may be more challenging than in adults for several reasons. These include a lack of awareness among some families that cancer can occur at this age, as well as the more aggressive biological behavior of certain tumors.<\/p>\n<p>The diagnostic methods used in children are similar to those used in adults. These include thyroid examination, appropriate imaging studies, and a biopsy when necessary. Some cases may require surgery to remove the thyroid gland and affected lymph nodes.<\/p>\n<p>Children may also develop disorders involving thyroid hormone production, including underactive and overactive thyroid function. An underactive thyroid may cause fatigue and weight gain, while an overactive thyroid may be associated with bulging eyes and weight loss. Both conditions require medical follow-up, appropriate medication, and the necessary laboratory tests.<\/p>\n<h2>Graves&#8217; Disease in Children<\/h2>\n<p>Graves&#8217; disease is an autoimmune disorder that can affect children. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. Symptoms may include an overactive thyroid, rapid heartbeat, sweating, weight loss, and, in some cases, bulging eyes.<\/p>\n<p>Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and blood tests measuring thyroid hormones and antibodies. The doctor determines the appropriate treatment according to the child&#8217;s condition. Treatment may include medication, surgery, or radioactive iodine in selected cases.<\/p>\n<h2>Salivary Gland Tumors in Children<\/h2>\n<p>Parotid gland surgery in children is uncommon and presents significant challenges at this young age. This is due to certain anatomical differences compared with adults, as well as the delicate nature of the facial nerve and its branches, which can be difficult to identify. Therefore, some cases may require microsurgery and the use of modern nerve-monitoring equipment during the procedure.<\/p>\n<p>The salivary glands, particularly the parotid gland, may be affected by various viral and bacterial infections. In such cases, the role of a pediatric head and neck surgery specialist is to diagnose and treat the condition and manage any complications that may arise.<\/p>\n<p>For benign and malignant tumors, surgical treatment is generally the primary option once the diagnosis has been confirmed. Delaying surgery may carry risks due to tumor growth and its proximity to the branches of the facial nerve.<\/p>\n<h3>Parotid Gland Tumor Extending Toward the Pharynx<\/h3>\n<p>The image shows a parotid gland tumor growing inward toward the pharynx. As a result, it may not produce an obvious external swelling and may increase in size before being noticed by the parents.<\/p>\n<p>Because salivary gland tumors are rare in children and are located close to the facial nerve, their evaluation relies on ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI, along with a biopsy when necessary. The appropriate surgical approach is then determined according to the tumor&#8217;s location and extent.<\/p>\n<h2>Neck Cysts in Children<\/h2>\n<p>Neck cysts in children can be classified into several types, including:<\/p>\n<h3>Congenital (Branchial Cleft) Cysts and Tumorous Cysts<\/h3>\n<p>Branchial cleft cysts are congenital abnormalities that result from incomplete development of certain facial and neck tissues during embryonic development. However, they may not become apparent until a later age or until they become infected.<\/p>\n<p>They may appear as a closed, fluid-filled cyst, a fistula connecting the skin to an internal structure, or a branchial tract with an opening either inside or outside the neck.<\/p>\n<p>The images illustrate different examples of these abnormalities. They may appear as a swelling on the side of the neck or as a skin opening with recurrent discharge. Some tracts may extend toward the parotid gland or the ear canal, close to the facial nerve. Therefore, the course of the fistula and its relationship to the nerves and blood vessels must be carefully identified before surgical removal.<\/p>\n<p>Branchial cleft fistulas present a surgical challenge because they may have an internal tract connecting to the pharynx or ear canal. They may also have an anatomical relationship with the major arteries of the neck or branches of the facial nerve.<\/p>\n<h3>Gland Cysts (Thyroid, Parathyroid, and Salivary Glands)<\/h3>\n<h3>Congenital Lymphatic Malformations of the Neck<\/h3>\n<p>A cystic lymphatic malformation is a fluid-filled cyst resulting from an abnormality or obstruction in the development of the lymphatic system. It commonly appears in a child&#8217;s neck as a soft swelling beneath the skin. It may be present at birth or develop later, and it may increase in size as the child grows.<\/p>\n<p>If you notice a soft swelling or a lump that is increasing in size in your child&#8217;s neck, particularly if it is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, feeding, or breathing, do not delay medical evaluation. Book an appointment with Dr. Mohamed Adel for an accurate assessment, identification of the lymphatic malformation, and determination of the most appropriate treatment plan for your child.<\/p>\n<h2>Jaw Tumors in Children<\/h2>\n<p>As in adults, children may develop various cysts and benign or malignant tumors in either the upper or lower jaw. Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and appropriate imaging studies to determine the location and size of the mass and its relationship to the teeth, nerves, and surrounding tissues. A tissue biopsy may also be required to identify the nature of the lesion.<\/p>\n<p>The treatment plan varies according to the tumor type, location, and extent. Treatment may involve removing the mass alone or removing part of the jaw and affected tissues, followed by reconstruction to preserve facial appearance and the functions of chewing, swallowing, and speech as much as possible.<\/p>\n<h3>Case 1: Appearance of a Mass in the Upper or Lower Jaw<\/h3>\n<p>The appearance of a mass or swelling in a child&#8217;s jaw does not necessarily indicate a malignant tumor. It may result from a cyst, infection, or benign tumor. However, a persistent or growing mass, or one associated with pain or tooth mobility, requires medical evaluation and appropriate imaging. A biopsy may also be necessary to determine the cause accurately.<\/p>\n<h3>Case 2: Lower Jaw Reconstruction Following Removal of a Malignant Tumor<\/h3>\n<p>The image shows a young girl following the removal of a malignant tumor and part of the lower jaw, followed by reconstructive surgery. The purpose of this stage is to replace the removed bone and tissues, restore facial symmetry, and improve jaw function. The procedure may involve using bone and tissue taken from the patient&#8217;s own body, with their small blood vessels connected under a surgical microscope.<\/p>\n<h2>Dr. Mohamed Adel&#8217;s Experience in Pediatric Head and Neck Surgery<\/h2>\n<p>Head and neck tumors and masses in children require specialized expertise in pediatric head and neck surgery. Treatment must take into account the small size of anatomical structures and their proximity to important nerves and blood vessels, while also preserving the child&#8217;s growth and the functions of swallowing, speech, and chewing, as well as facial appearance.<\/p>\n<p>Dr. Mohamed Adel, Consultant in Pediatric Head and Neck Surgery, provides accurate evaluation and selects the appropriate intervention for each case. His services include biopsies, tumor removal, microsurgery, and reconstruction when necessary, in collaboration with other relevant medical specialties.<\/p>\n<p>If you notice a persistent lump or swelling on your child&#8217;s head or neck, do not let worry take the place of proper diagnosis. Book an appointment with Dr. Mohamed Adel, a pediatric head and neck surgery specialist, to have your child examined, review the imaging studies, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your child&#8217;s needs.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Children can develop a wide range of conditions affecting the head and neck. Although some of these conditions are uncommon in childhood, accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment play an important role in achieving the best possible outcomes. Pediatric head and neck surgery requires specialized expertise that takes into account the small size of anatomical structures, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":7219,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[63],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7083","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-63"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7083","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7083"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7083\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7102,"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7083\/revisions\/7102"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7219"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7083"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7083"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drmohamedadel.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7083"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}