Hello, I am new to the forums but I have a question about how reliable Ultrasound is for diagnosing a lump under the skin on the face? I have a fairly large lump. Appx the size of a large grape. My Dr. wants an US done but I have doubts about the reliability. Thank you in advance.

Hi Mom of 3:
I don't know how ultra sounds works as far as diagnosing the lump. I know fine need aspirations are used and they're not invasive and can be easily done. Others on the Forum will be joining in soon, and they'll have all kind of suggestions for you. Just wanted to say Hello and glad you joined us, but hope you don't need to stay.
julieann

Hi Julieann,
Thank you for the reply. I have been poking around the forums since last Friday when my dentist told me the lump isn't tooth related and to see an oral surgeon. I opted to see my PCD instead. She thought it was a cyst but I kept questioning her and she brought the dermatologist in. The Derm Dr. said it isn't a cyst because it's deeper than a cyst would present and said to have an Ultrasound done and send me to see the ENT. I am anxious to have the US done and am waiting for them to call with my appt. I did ask her about an MRI and she said it's not necessary. I question that and will continue to question it when I see the ENT.

It seems to me, and I'm no expert, that all an US would do is tell them if a needle biopsy is needed. That's the only way I know of to really rule out cancer so seems you could just skip to the biopsy. Again, no expert, just mho. Anyway, welcome to the forum, Hope you don't need it but it's here if you do.

I would suggest you go to an ENT. You dont say where the lump is but saying it isnt tooth related leads me to believe its around your mouth area. You have seen doctors who are not in the right field to help you so go to an ENT. Find one who is familiar with treating oral cancer patients.

Best wishes!

I had a an ultrasound but only to get a fix on targeting a site for a needle biopsy. The Ultrasound is not very good for diagnostic purposes. Go see the ENT, I'm sure he/she will want something more specific. And just remember that a biopsy is the only way to rule out cancer.

Ultrasounds are relatively inexpensive compared to other imaging tests. I'm pretty sure that is why my doctor ordered one instead of what I asked for.

As far as the reliability, they won't be able to conclusively diagnose anything with the ultrasound, but they may be able to see if something is there that is concerning. I had my ultrasound last week. I have a lump that is mobile and rolls between the front and back of my lower jaw bone. It feels much larger than 1 cm. I have a similar one on the other side that is a bit smaller. My results showed that lymph nodes were present all under 1cm. This leads me to believe they weren't able to see the lump even though they extensively scanned that area on both sides.

I think the US is an okay starting point, but if they can't see anything and you are still concerned, keep pushing for answers.

Thank you all for replying. The lump feels connected to my lower jaw bone appx at the end of where my molars would be but starts lower than the tooth-line. It doesn't really move around when I poke at it. I've had it for over a yr (thought it was tooth related so i put it off). It didn't bother me much but is now starting to really give me pain that shoots into my left ear and down the left side of my neck. I also have intermittent ear pain and sometimes tingling on the left side of my face. No knumbness though. I just feel odd as everyday goes by. I have a high tolerance for pain so if it's hurting, it's hurting! That's just a small background of my situation. I will definately see the ENT. Just waiting for an appt.

Yes, see the ENT. No ultrasound unless what you are looking at is a lymph node . . . I do not really understand where your lump is, even after you have described it. Is it under your jaw? An ultrasound would be used for a fine needle aspiration biopsy.

Best,
Anne

Hi Anne,
It's between my outer cheek and jaw bone. Feels attached to the lower jaw bone. I'm not asking for a diagnosis in any way. Just thoughts on US and how effective it is for diagnosing whatever the lump is.

It's not you need a ct or biopsy. Ct first though. Good luck!