Hard Lump Near 7-Year-Old Boy's Ear: Causes and Care

A 7-year-old boy has developed a hard lump near his left ear?

Hello, doctor.
The day before yesterday, my seven-year-old son told me that he has a hard lump on his face, located near his left ear.
It is not visible to the eye, but when touched, it feels like a small hard bump, approximately 0.5 centimeters in size, and it is not painful to the touch.
What could this be, and how should I handle it? Thank you!

Shuǐpíng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/13

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

The causes of subcutaneous masses in this area can be numerous, such as: sebaceous cysts, epidermoid cysts, sialadenitis, salivary gland stones, normal lymph nodes, lymphadenitis, or rare malignant lymph nodes, among others.
It is recommended to consult a pediatric otolaryngologist or pediatric surgeon for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2019/12/13

More Info

When a parent notices a hard lump near their child's ear, it can understandably cause concern. In the case of your 7-year-old son, the lump you described is approximately 0.5 cm in size, non-painful, and not visibly noticeable. There are several potential causes for such a lump, and understanding these can help guide you on the appropriate steps to take.

Possible Causes of the Lump
1. Lymph Nodes: One of the most common causes of a hard lump in this area is an enlarged lymph node. Lymph nodes can swell in response to infections, inflammation, or other immune responses. If your child has recently had a cold or any other infection, this could be a normal reaction.

2. Sebaceous Cyst: These are non-cancerous lumps that can occur when a sebaceous gland becomes blocked. They are usually painless and can vary in size.
3. Epidermoid Cyst: Similar to sebaceous cysts, these are also benign and form when skin cells multiply and become trapped under the skin.

4. Salivary Gland Issues: The area near the ear contains salivary glands, and sometimes these can become inflamed or blocked, leading to a lump.

5. Infection: Conditions such as mastoiditis (an infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear) can also present as a lump, although this is usually accompanied by other symptoms like pain or fever.

6. Other Conditions: Less commonly, lumps can be caused by more serious conditions such as tumors (benign or malignant), but these are rare in children.

Recommended Actions
Given the variety of potential causes, the best course of action is to consult a pediatrician or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to better understand the nature of the lump.

When to Seek Immediate Care
While many lumps are benign, you should seek immediate medical attention if your child experiences any of the following:
- Rapid growth of the lump
- Pain or tenderness in the area
- Fever or other signs of infection
- Changes in skin color or texture over the lump
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Conclusion
In summary, while a hard lump near your child's ear can be concerning, many causes are benign and treatable. It is essential to have a healthcare professional evaluate the lump to determine its nature and decide if any treatment is necessary. Regular monitoring of the lump for any changes is also advisable. Remember, early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so don't hesitate to seek medical advice.

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