Is a CT scan a good option for seeing lymph nodes in the neck

[Spartan114]

I asked a question awhile back regarding 4 painless slightly swollen lymph nodes I’ve had for months. 8 months now. They haven’t gotten any bigger but there are new ones going up my neck under my jaw. I finally convinced a doctor that wasn’t normal and they agree and scheduled a CT of my neck to evaluate them. My question is why? I’ve has several ultrasounds which showed no bad signs but they agree them multiplying is suspect. But from everything I’ve read CT’s show lymph nodes no better than an ultrasound. I guess I’m frustrated because no one has even discussed biopsy, I get they are small but that seems like the obvious solution by this point.

My other concern is if I should even go ahead with the CT scan, I’m 24 years old and already had 3, On͏e six months ago. I don’t want all the radiation just for them to go on without taking a biopsy.

Any thoughts would be helpful, should I refuse the CT? What would that see the ultrasound didn’t? Have I had a lot of CT’s for someone my age and where would I go to get actual progress made on these nodes.

[CHIN_C]

CT is better than US for evaluating lymph nodes. If you are concerned about radiation, consider MRI instead.

[Ken_PA]

I wouldn't get the CT, because of the radiation  (very especially if without contrast, as that only gives dimensions).  

I'd push for needle biopsy.

I'd watch this several times, though the ACR might disagree:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFd59xKaqbk
"Sonography of Lymph Nodes"