What could a lump on the neck under the ear indicate?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

A lump on the neck under the ear can have several possible causes. Common explanations include Kimura disease (a rare chronic inflammatory disorder), Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or a dermoid cyst. Other possibilities may include swollen lymph nodes, infections, or benign growths.

Because these conditions range from harmless to serious, identifying the likely cause early matters. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you understand what may be behind your lump, highlight red flags, and guide your next steps—so you know whether to monitor at home or see a doctor promptly.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

A lump on the neck under the ear can have different causes. Here are some possibilities:

Kimura Disease: This is a rare condition that can cause lumps near the ear. It is characterized by painless swelling and may be associated with other symptoms like skin changes.
Lymphomas: Both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas can present as lumps in the neck. These are types of cancer that affect the lymphatic system, and they may cause swelling in the lymph nodes.
Dermoid Cyst: A dermoid cyst is a type of cyst that can appear near the ear. It is generally benign and may contain tissue like hair or skin.

If you notice a lump, try our free AI symptom checker to better understand your symptoms before consulting a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

(References)

Gao Y, Yan H, & Zhong Y. (2025). A Case of Kimura Disease in the Left Postauricular and .... Ear, nose, & throat journal, 39865694.
Weber AL, Rahemtullah A, & Ferry JA. (2003). Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the head and neck. Neuroimaging clinics of North America, 14631680.
Jeong J, Choi YJ, Lee K, & Choi HS. (2020). Dermoid Cyst in the Postauricular Area. The Journal of craniofacial surgery, 32487830.

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