A DEMOGRAPHIC STUDY OF NECK SWELLINGS IN NORTHERN INDIA AND THEIR CLINICAL PROFILE.

Introduction: Neck swellings present a challenging aspect in the diagnosis and treatment of both local and systemic diseases. The intricate anatomy of the neck, with its multiple vital structures, and the wide spectrum of potential diseases contribute to this complexity. Additionally, the distribution patterns of these swellings can vary based on geography, sex, and age, further complicating the diagnostic process. The aim of the present study is to examine the demographic distribution and clinical prole of neck swellings in Northern India. This prospective study included 200 patients with complaints of neck sw Material and Method: elling, who presented to the Department of General Surgery at Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, Punjab. A detailed history and clinical examination were conducted for each patient and documented in a structured proforma. Each patient underwent radiological investigations, initially sonography, with CT/MRI in certain cases. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) was performed on all patients to aid in diagnosis. Observation and Results: Total of 200 patients were included in the study, out of which majority of patients were female (66.5%) and belonging to the age group 31-40 years. Lymph node swellings were the most common, comprises of 51.5% cases and tuberculosis was seen to be the most common cause. 5% patients were seen to have malignant swelling on FNAC. From our study we concluded that in Northern Conclusion: India, females who are in the 4th decade of life are more prone to develop a swelling in the neck region due to thyroid diseases. However, overall lymph nodes are the most commonly involved structure in patient with neck swellings. It is also concluded that socioeconomic status and oral/general hygiene plays an important role in the prevalence of neck swellings as seen in our study