Finding a lump behind the ear can be unsettling. However, these lumps are often benign and do not indicate a serious health problem. This article provides general information about common causes of lumps that may appear in this area.
Common Lumps Behind the Ear
Several conditions can cause a lump behind the ear. A common type is a sebaceous cyst, sometimes referred to as an epidermoid cyst. These form when sebaceous glands, which produce the skin’s natural oils, become blocked, accumulating oily substance or dead skin cells. These smooth, movable lumps beneath the skin feel soft to firm and may have a small dark spot at their center.
Lipomas are another frequent cause of lumps in this region. These benign fatty tumors grow slowly under the skin, feeling soft, doughy, and movable. They are generally painless unless they press on nerves or grow large. While they can occur anywhere on the body, they are a common finding behind the ear.
Swollen lymph nodes are also common. These small, bean-shaped structures are part of the immune system, filtering foreign substances and fighting infections. When the body combats an infection, such as a cold, ear infection, or strep throat, the lymph nodes behind the ear can enlarge. These swollen nodes feel tender, movable, and rubbery, usually returning to normal size once the infection resolves.
Skin infections can also cause lumps. Folliculitis, an inflammation of hair follicles, causes small, red, sometimes pus-filled bumps. Abscesses are larger, tender, red, warm pockets of pus from bacterial infections, often occurring when bacteria infiltrate a hair follicle. These can be painful and may require medical attention for drainage and antibiotics.
Keloids are raised scars that can form behind the ear, particularly after skin injury or ear piercings. They develop due to an overgrowth of fibrous tissue, specifically collagen, during healing. Keloids are firm, rubbery, and can extend beyond the original wound boundaries. They may vary in color from pink to dark brown and can sometimes cause itching or discomfort.
When to Consult a Doctor
While many lumps behind the ear are benign, certain characteristics warrant medical evaluation. Seek professional medical attention if a lump appears suddenly or grows rapidly. Consult a doctor if it is accompanied by pain, tenderness, redness, or warmth, as these can indicate infection or inflammation.
Discharge or pus from the lump indicates a possible infection requiring treatment. Also, seek medical consultation if the lump is accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or a general feeling of being unwell.
A lump that feels hard, is immobile, or fixed to underlying tissue should be evaluated. Note any skin changes over the lump, such as discoloration or ulceration. Any new lump in adults, especially if it persists for several weeks or has concerning symptoms like unexplained weight loss or night sweats, requires a medical visit. If a persistent lump causes concern or anxiety, seeking a medical opinion can provide guidance.
Understanding Diagnosis and Treatment
When a lump behind the ear causes concern, a healthcare professional will conduct an initial assessment. This involves a physical examination of the lump, noting its size, texture, mobility, and any skin changes. The doctor will also gather a detailed medical history, inquiring about the lump’s onset, symptoms, and relevant past medical conditions or infections.
Diagnostic tools provide further insight. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, offer detailed information about the lump’s consistency and size. For deeper or unclear characteristics, an MRI scan might be recommended. Blood tests can check for infection or inflammation. If the lump’s nature remains uncertain or malignancy is suspected, a biopsy may be performed. This procedure involves taking a tissue sample for microscopic examination by a pathologist for a definitive diagnosis.
Treatment approaches are specific to the underlying diagnosis. For benign, asymptomatic lumps like small lipomas or cysts, observation may be recommended. If the lump is caused by an infection, such as an abscess or inflamed lymph node, antibiotics may be prescribed. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also reduce swelling and pain.
For abscesses or infected cysts, drainage of fluid or pus may be necessary. Surgical removal is an option for persistent cysts, large lipomas, or keloids. If there is concern about the lump’s nature or if it is a tumor, surgical excision might be performed. The treatment plan is determined by the healthcare provider based on the diagnosis and patient needs.