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Forum Name: Dermatology Topics

Question: lump behind ear

jackattack1118 - Thu Feb 15, 2007 5:50 am

19, female About a month ago I noticed a lump behind my left ear located right on the bone (I think it's the temporal) and it hasn't gone away. It's movable, firm and I'd say a little bigger than the average mosquito bite. I haven't gotten it checked out yet, it doesn't hurt, and hasn't gotten any bigger or smaller since I've noticed it. I'm just curious as to what it might be. Thanks

Dr. Safaa Mahmoud - Thu Feb 15, 2007 1:09 pm

Hello, The swelling you have described that is felt on the left upper side of the neck behind the ear is probably enlarged Lymph nodes as it occurs in a Lymph node region. Abnormal Lymph node enlargement commonly results from infection / immune response, cancer. Following infection Lymph nodes become enlarged, painful and tender. A history of scalp infected lesions, or Ear infection may be present, as this Lymph node could be a reactionary to infection in the area drained by this Lymph node group. Sometimes, following infection, Lymph nodes remain permanently enlarged, though they should be non-tender, small (less the 1 cm), have a rubbery consistency and none of the characteristics described for malignancy or for infection (hard, fixed, increasing progressively in size). These are also known as 'Shotty Lymph nodes'. Hence nodes that continue to grow in size are significant and those that regress in size tend to be more reassuring. Other possible causes include: Dermatitis, folliculitis. Direct clinical examination is essential Keep us updated. Best regards.

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