Differential Diagnosis for Preauricular Lump

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Benign lymphadenopathy: This is often the most common cause of a preauricular lump, usually resulting from a viral or bacterial infection, and is characterized by swollen lymph nodes in the preauricular area.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Sebaceous cyst: A common skin condition that can occur in the preauricular area, characterized by a benign, usually painless, lump under the skin.
  • Epidermoid cyst: Similar to sebaceous cysts, these are benign cysts that can form in the preauricular area due to abnormal skin cell growth.
  • Abscess: A collection of pus that can form in the preauricular area, often as a result of a bacterial infection, which can be painful and may require drainage.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Parotid gland tumor: Although less common, tumors of the parotid gland, which is located near the preauricular area, can present as a lump and require prompt evaluation to rule out malignancy.
  • Lymphoma: A type of cancer that can cause lymph nodes to swell, including those in the preauricular area, making it crucial for early detection and treatment.
• Rare diagnoses
  • First branchial cleft anomaly: A rare congenital condition that can present as a lump or cyst in the preauricular area, often associated with an abnormal connection between the skin and the internal structures of the ear.
  • Preauricular sinus: A congenital condition where a small pit or sinus is present in front of the ear, which can become infected and present as a lump.
  • Dermoid cyst: A rare type of cyst that can occur in the preauricular area, containing skin and sometimes other tissue, which can become infected or cause other complications if not treated.