What causes a hard, sore lump near the ear?
Patient: I have a lump about the size of a marble in front of my ear. Right before where the hollow of my cheek is. I just recently discovered it and it’s a little sore to the touch. It is hard and doesn’t move around. I am just wondering if I should be worried? Doctor: Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.  In most cases cause is benign and should not worry you. If this I soft and not painful then this in most cases indicates swollen lymph node, lipoma or atheroma. And if this is hard and immobile swelling behind the ear would be a bony swelling, most commonly known as osteoma. These swellings are generally asymptomatic and requires no treatment. However if it increases in size or you develop pain then I would like you to meet a ENT doctor for further evaluation and treatment. The other swelling in the neck is likely to be a lymph node and since it has not increased in size for past few years then you have nothing to worry. No treatment is required.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Ivan R. Rommstein