What Does A Painless Lump Below The Left Ear Indicate?
Question: I have melanoma. Stage 3. I underwent a left inguinal lymph node dissection superficial/deep node dissection,
Sept. 2013. Chemo with radiation of high doses of interferon for 4 weeks followed by radiation Rx. for 5 weeks.
During the last 2 weeks of radiation, I noted a skin lump, below my left ear, 1 cm below the ear,adjacent to my upper jaw line. My MD advised me to observe the site for increase in size. The small skin lump is painless & has not increased in size. I will be starting Interferon injections in 1 month, 3X/week for 11 months. Should I be concerned in
that my MD's appointment is in 1 month?
Brief Answer:
observe the lesion
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I agree with your doctor. The lump look painless at the present. But in the background of tumour, this lump needs to be observed closely. If the lump increases in size suddenly, you must meet your treating doctor.
Please don't be very worried, you are already on radiation and chemotherapy, hence treatment is already on. These therapies are given at fixed interval and extra doses are not advised even if new lesions appear. You can wait a month to meet your doctor.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Greetings Dr. XXXXXXX
Thank-you for your medical response on the skin lesion,
adjacent to my left upper jawline with my underlying Dx
of melanoma. I agree with your response to observe the
site.
I am a Critical care RN in Toronto, Ontario. Canada.
Post radiation Rx., I am recovering from radiation
skin breakdown; hence, with the lymphatic system
adjusting to this insult, I am hydrating with 2 litres
of fluid, beyond the normal daily amounts via foods.
My priority is to prevent infection with optimal wound
& skin care best practices to my left inguinal site of
recent therapies for lymph node dissection.
Your comforting words given, eased my mind.
Cordially,
XXXX
Brief Answer:
Use aloe vera cream
Detailed Answer:
Hello
You are correct the first priority should be to control infection.
Its good you are maintaining hydration.
In addition you can use a mild emollient like aloe vera cream.
This will prevent loss of water from skin.
Dont worry soon you will recover.
Feel free to ask any other doubt.
Thank you
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Shanthi.E