Thanks for your reply, Brian. What is a torus? Also, is it uncommon for a lymph gland to remain swollen? The ENT conducted an ultrasound and then subsequently a CT scan on this lump. The radiologist stated that it appeared to have blood flow but was small and appeared uniform, not jagged, so he suspected it was just a swollen lymph node. The ENT agreed. I don't want to appear paranoid, I just am a little concerned that it has not gone away or seemed to have changed. You're right, I guess I should have it rechecked and should ask for a needle biopsy to be sure. I just wondered if it was common for others to have lymph nodes appear swollen and it not amount to anything. Like everyone else, my life is busy and I always want to think that it will go away. Maybe I've waited long enough. But is it possible that it will just stay that way forever with no problems? Thanks, TGF