Swollen supraclavicular lymph node, left side?

Question

It's been pea-sized, firm and movable in a 1 inch diameter area for about 1.5 months. Hasn't grown or diminished at all. I'm an extremely healthy person. No smoking, moderate drinking, lots of excersize, no illnesses, infections or wounds, and a fairly low cancer history; Mother -ovarian, 30 yrs old. The internet has less than favorable things to say, siting the left-supraclavicular node as a sentinel node, "Virchow's Node," etc. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

I saw a doc, and she said, "It's probably nothing. Come back in a month if it's grown." -What the hell is that? So for a month, I have to live with, "It's probably nothing???" Not good enough. I need peace of mind. I'd like to hear from someone who had the closest symptoms to those I've specified. "Pea-sized, firm, slightly movable, non painful, located behind left clavicle." Btw, I'd LOVE to hear from someone that had this condition and found out it was nothing... or at least not cancer.

Answer 1

Let me share my experience with you.

I was diagnosed with stage IIIA Hodgkin’s lymphoma in early 2004. I had a very similar, but a bit larger swollen lymph node on the side of my neck. It was allot like you're describing, non-painful, a little firm and I could move it around a little. My regular doctor said the same thing as far as keeping an eye on it, watch for growth or if it does not go away to come back. Finally, I got a CT scan done and that showed a chain of swollen lymph nodes all the way from my neck to my lower abdomen. I had the one on my neck removed for biopsy and that confirmed my diagnoses.

I’m not saying the same will be true for you, there are other reasons for swollen lymph nodes, but I would definitely pursue this if it does not go away. Insist on a CT scan.

I underwent six cycles of ABVD (chemo) and two additional cycles of ABV. (Those last two were without the Bleomycin, which had harsh side effects and has given me some difficulties.) I did have a mediport put in for the chemo. After all that, I underwent 40 cycle’s of radiation therapy, which was not as bad as the chemo.
(This is the short version of the whole treatment experience.)

It’s been over one year since my last treatment and I’m doing well. I do get easily fatigued and a little short of breath now, (Bleomycin) but I’m doing good for 41 years young. I had a lot of family support and I tried to keep a positive attitude the entire time.

Right after my treatments, my oncologist explained to me that because of the advanced stage of my lymphoma at the time it was diagnosed, my chances of recurrence was about 60%. He also said that the further out I get from my last treatment the lesser the chance of recurrence. My percentages would have been different of course if I were originally diagnosed at a lower stage. I’ll be following up with CT scans and lab work and what ever over the long term.

I hope I’ve answered your question. I don’t mind sharing my experience. Also check the Lance Armstrong Foundation website for more information and some excellent video Survivor Stories.

Answer 2

Swollen Supraclavicular Lymph Nodes

Answer 3

Left Supraclavicular Lymph Node

Answer 4

I noticed about 6 weeks ago a swollen area in my supraclavicular area on the left side. My Doc gave me and ultrasound that showed a slightly swollen lymph node and he said it was most likely due to an infection and to let him know if it did not go away in a couple weeks. It didn't so he ordered a CT scan of my chest and of the left supraclavicular area which was negative. I am still concerned with this swelling. It feels squishy and protrudes above my collarbone. I haven't had an infection that I am aware of except for a bout of bronchitis with a cough back in March. I do however have some pain in my left shoulder but I attribute that to degenerative disease of aging and many years working in the Nursing field. Any thoughts or ideas about supraclavicular swelling and what may be some causes?

Answer 5

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Swollen supraclavicular lymph node, left side?
It's been pea-sized, firm and movable in a 1 inch diameter area for about 1.5 months. Hasn't grown or diminished at all. I'm an extremely healthy person. No smoking, moderate drinking, lots of excersize, no illnesses, infections or wounds, and a fairly low cancer history; Mother...

Answer 6

Wow, I've never heard of 'Virchow's node', I'll have to look that up. For ME [not necessarily you], that node was an indicator of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. I never smoked, drank, and had zero family history or other risk factors for cancer.

Please have it checked out, we are not doctors in here. But, mine didn't hurt either. Not trying to scare you, it could be nothing. But, let a professional tell you that.

Answer 7

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Answer 8

I sould say that if it is free floating, and not growing in size that it is probably a benign growth, such as a cyst perhaps. The best thing to do is see your doctor, let them investigate to be on the safe side.

if it is cancer...the sooner they catch it the better your chances are of getting it removed without extensive treatment, such as kemo.

Answer 9

For once the internet is right:)).
Swelling in the left supraclavicular region are to be taken VERY seriosly. Get it checked ASAP. You are health, hope u stay that way.

Answer 10

See a doctor..that's what they are there for..they are not here waiting to diagnose people on yahoo answers.they are far too busy treating people....those of us that are here don't have important enough jobs to be busy..thats why we are here.