Core biopsy from mass on right lateral neck

Eighteen years ago, I felt a pea-sized lump in my neck that the doctor couldn't detect, so he put me on anti-biotics. After two weeks, I was sent to an ENT, who did a needle biopsy from the offending lymph node which had increase in size, extracting substantial fluid that came back positive for basil cell carcinoma. Scoping the throat revealed a small tumor on the base of my tongue. A PET scan showed lymph nodes on both sides of my throat were cancerous. A second scan after radiation and surgery still showed some cancer remained, so surgery was scheduled, which occurred 3 months after I had completed my radiation treatment. There was no cancer present at that time. I can only assume the radiation was still having an effect during the interim. I know they have come a long way since then, so hopefully you will get a quick resolution. Good luck!

The scenario you described is pretty much identical to my situation. Swollen lymph node, ultrasound confirmed several swollen nodes clumped on right side. 2 months later got CT with contrast. CT showed necrotic tissue in nodes. PCP ordered urgent biopsy and scope exam. ENT doctor confirmed tumor in right side of base of the tongue/tonsil and biopsy confirmed HPV 16 SCC, PET scan followed with no metastatic disease beyond throat area. Waiting for consultations with chemo and radio therapy oncologists for treatment plan. Trust in yourself and your doctors. They will get you through this.

@jmcates11, have you worked with your cancer team in the meantime? What's the treatment plan? How are you doing?

Eighteen years ago, I felt a pea-sized lump in my neck that the doctor couldn't detect, so he put me on anti-biotics. After two weeks, I was sent to an ENT, who did a needle biopsy from the offending lymph node which had increase in size, extracting substantial fluid that came back positive for basil cell carcinoma. Scoping the throat revealed a small tumor on the base of my tongue. A PET scan showed lymph nodes on both sides of my throat were cancerous. A second scan after radiation and surgery still showed some cancer remained, so surgery was scheduled, which occurred 3 months after I had completed my radiation treatment. There was no cancer present at that time. I can only assume the radiation was still having an effect during the interim. I know they have come a long way since then, so hopefully you will get a quick resolution. Good luck!