Cysts behind the ear are common, typically benign lumps that can develop in the skin or underlying tissues. While discovering a lump can be concerning, these cysts are usually harmless and often do not require extensive medical intervention.
Understanding Cysts Behind the Ear
Cysts behind the ear generally present as noticeable bumps or lumps. These can vary in size, from a few millimeters to several centimeters, and may feel either soft or firm to the touch. They are often movable beneath the skin, distinguishing them from more fixed growths.
These formations are not typically cancerous; they are sac-like pockets of tissue. They can contain fluid, air, or other materials like dead skin cells or oily substances. Their presence is usually linked to the skin’s natural processes or developmental factors in the area.
Primary Causes of Ear Cysts
Cysts behind the ear can arise from several distinct mechanisms. The most frequently encountered types include epidermoid cysts, sebaceous cysts, and, less commonly, branchial cleft cysts.
Epidermoid cysts
Epidermoid cysts are common skin cysts. They form when surface skin cells, which normally shed, become trapped beneath the skin’s surface, often due to blocked hair follicles or skin injuries. These cysts slowly accumulate keratin, a protein found in skin and hair, resulting in a firm, movable lump.
Sebaceous cysts
Sebaceous cysts originate from blocked or damaged sebaceous glands. These glands are responsible for producing sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair. When a gland’s duct becomes obstructed, sebum builds up, forming a soft, movable cyst that may have a small central opening.
Branchial cleft cysts
Branchial cleft cysts are congenital, meaning they are present from birth. They form from remnants of embryonic development in the neck and ear region. These cysts arise when tissues that should have naturally closed during fetal development do not, leaving a small sac or tract that can fill with fluid.
Recognizing Symptoms and When to Consult a Doctor
While many cysts are painless, some may cause tenderness or discomfort, especially if they become inflamed. The skin over the cyst might appear red or swollen, and in some cases, there could be a discharge if the cyst ruptures or becomes infected.
Medical attention is necessary for rapid growth of the lump, increased pain, warmth around the area, or pus drainage. Fever accompanying the lump, or any changes in its appearance or texture, such as becoming fixed or irregularly shaped, warrant a doctor’s visit. A healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the type of lump and rule out other conditions.
Managing and Treating Ear Cysts
Many cysts behind the ear, particularly those that are small and do not cause symptoms, may not require any treatment. They can sometimes shrink or even disappear on their own. However, observation is important to monitor for any changes.
Home care for mild discomfort or inflammation can involve applying warm compresses to the area. This can help reduce swelling and promote drainage in some cases, but avoid attempting to squeeze or drain the cyst at home, as this can lead to infection or further irritation.
Medical interventions are available for cysts that are bothersome, infected, or growing. If a cyst is infected, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. For symptomatic or recurring cysts, common procedures include incision and drainage, where the cyst’s contents are removed, or surgical excision, which involves removing the entire cyst and its capsule to minimize recurrence. This surgical approach is often performed under local anesthesia.