Possible salivary gland issue

[Nickflatoff]

Hey there. About 7 months ago I noticed a lump protruding down from the inside of my back left jaw area. After seeing two family doctors, both were unsure of the cause and referred me to an ENT expert who also saw me. He was stumped as well.

The only symptoms have been fatigue and a significantly reduced ability to taste. It does not hurt or feel uncomfortable. From what I've read, it sounds like a salivary gland issue. Any theories?

[Nickflatoff]

Yep, my dad's self employed. Ever wonder how much a CT scan of the throat area costs? $2160. Unless you don't have insurance coverage. Then it's $265. If you don't see the price tag you don't care. Talk about a messed up system...

Anyway, I got a CT (the $265 one) and I need it removed. Praise God for Medishare covering the surgery!

[Londres70]

A "10K" deductible?  Does that even exist?  I have never heard of a deductible being that high.  Are you sure about that?  It that is true.....WOW.    

Well....there is NO way getting around a biopsy and/or imaging to diagnose your situation unfortunately.  

[Nickflatoff]

ENT specialists (3 of them). We were hoping to get some idea of what it was before doing a CT as we have a very high ($10k) deductible and don't want to be stuck with a CT and MRI, so we wanted to be sure a CT would suffice. Looks like that is the route we are going.

[Londres70]

Well, this should be imaged or biopsied.....something needs to be done.  Some things CAN'T be palpated and diagnosed.  

What kind of physician are you seeing?  

[Nickflatoff]

It is large.probably a two-inch sphere. No imaging done, we have a crazy high deductible for insurance. I'm seeing one more doctor tomorrow who has been in practice for like 30 years, so hopefully he will know what it is before a $900+ct scan

[Londres70]

How big is the lump?  

Any imaging done of the lump?  CT?  Flat plate x-ray?

Try consulting an oral surgeon.  

[Caryopteris]

I'd show my dentist.