New guideline clarifies ultrasound use for paediatric neck lumps

The British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS) has released a guideline to assist healthcare professionals in managing paediatric neck lumps, with a focus on appropriate ultrasound use. Neck masses are common in children, often resulting from benign causes like reactive lymphadenopathy or congenital lesions, while malignancies, though rare, become more likely with age.

Ultrasound is highlighted as a crucial diagnostic tool, but its use should be selective. The guideline recommends ultrasound for persistent neck masses over 2cm, midline lumps, or palpable masses in infants under six months, as well as suspected congenital or developmental lesions. While ultrasound is effective in characterising these lumps, it should not be used routinely in healthy children with minor lymphadenopathy, as it cannot reliably differentiate between benign and malignant nodes.

By providing clear criteria for when ultrasound is necessary, the guideline aims to ensure timely and appropriate care, minimising unnecessary procedures while facilitating early detection of serious conditions.

Download the guidelines here.

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