Noticed Small, Painless Lump Under Ear And Above Jaw. What Could It Be?

Posted on Fri, 26 Apr 2013

Question: I have a small, painless (unless I push on it) lump about 1 cm in size below and a little to the front of my right ear, above the jaw line. It is soft but firm. It seems to be right under the skin, but attached to it because I can't move it under the skin. I noticed it when I woke up in the morning (it wasn't there the day before).It's not perfectly round, it is taller than it is wide. In the picture it's a bit red since I've been pushing on it. It's been about the same size since it appeared a few days ago.

Answered by Dr. Tanusree Biswas (16 minutes later)

Hello..Welcome to XXXXXXX
Thanks for your query.

I have seen the picture uploaded.There are two main possibilities here:

1) Nodulo-cystic acne : This is a deeper form of pimples .It can happen singly or in multiple numbers .I saw a few acne lesions in the photo uploaded , hence this is a possibility for you.It is treated by Intra-Lesional injection of corticosteroids.May/may not require antibiotics in addition.

2) Sebaceous Cyst : Sometimes cysts can be noticed only when they are infected and increase in size .This is a common type of cyst and is treated by oral anti biotics or excisions after the initial inflammation has subsided.

Hope this information is helpful to you.
i will be happy to answer any follow up queries you have.

Best Wishes,
DR.TANUSHREE BISWAS

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Tanusree Biswas (18 minutes later)

Is there any risk that it is saliva gland cancer or a swollen lymph node?

Answered by Dr. Tanusree Biswas (25 minutes later)

Thanks of following up.

It does not look like a lymph node ..Lymph node swelling should be hard.Site is uncommon as well.So I do not think so.

It is not a salivary gland cancer or any growth related to the salivary gland.

Best Wishes,
DR.TANUSHREE BISWAS

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar