Nodule in the Anterior Neck Area, Moves with Swallowing but Not with the Tongue

CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS MANUAL

Nodules in the anterior neck area that move with swallowing suggest a connection with the thyroid gland or related structures, serving as a key sign for differential diagnosis. The evaluation includes a detailed examination and complementary tests to determine the origin and nature, whether benign or malignant. Below are the symptoms, clinical signs, diagnostic tests, and associated pathologies linked to this characteristic.

Pathology	Symptoms and Clinical Signs	Diagnosis of Suspicion	Diagnosis of Confirmation
Thyroglossal Cyst	Midline neck lump, generally painless, that moves with swallowing. Can become infected and cause pain.	Midline neck mass that moves with swallowing, but not with the tongue. Redness and tenderness may be present if infected.	Clinical history and physical examination. Neck ultrasound to assess the structure and content of the cyst.
Ectopic Thyroid Tissue	Painless midline neck lump, difficulty swallowing in severe cases.	Midline neck mass that moves with swallowing, but not with the tongue. Usually asymptomatic if not associated with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.	Clinical history and physical examination. Neck ultrasound to identify and characterise the ectopic tissue.