Hello, Thanks for posting your query, Given the chronic nature of the ear knot and the fact that a foul smelling discharge comes out of it, it is highly suggestive of a superinfected benign mass. Depending on the characteristic of the small swelling (such as size, texture, surface consistency etc) we would be able to tell which mass is it. It could just be an abscess that is infected by a resistant germs which would require an appropriate antibiotics after culture of the fluid discharge. An infected keloid is a possibility. A dermatologist or a primary care doctor would be useful in determining the cause and treatment. It might even require complete excision or incision and drainage, all depending on what the doctor finds upon examining. Hope this helps and wish you the best