Differential Diagnosis for a Hard Lump on the Ear
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cyst or abscess: This is the most common cause of a hard lump on the ear, often resulting from a blocked oil gland or infection.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Sebaceous hyperplasia: A benign growth that can feel like a hard lump, often found on the ears, face, and neck.
- Keloid or hypertrophic scar: A raised, thickened scar that can form after ear piercing, injury, or surgery.
- Cartilaginous tumor (e.g., chondroma): A rare, benign tumor that can cause a hard lump on the ear.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma: Although less common, these skin cancers can present as a hard lump on the ear and require prompt treatment.
- Merkel cell carcinoma: A rare, aggressive skin cancer that can appear as a firm, painless nodule on the ear.
- Rare diagnoses
- Gouty tophus: A deposit of uric acid crystals that can form a hard lump on the ear, often associated with gout.
- Rheumatoid nodule: A rare, benign growth that can occur on the ears, associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Relapsing polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause cartilage inflammation and lead to the formation of hard lumps on the ears.