Nodules Behind Ears Swell With Discharge. What Could This Be?

Posted on Mon, 11 Nov 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 11 Nov 2013 Answered on

Fri, 29 Nov 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Behind both ears i have atleast 5 nodules that swell and get painful and give off a horrible smelling discharge. The discharge is white lumpy like cottage cheese with a smell like vinegar or formic acid. If i dont milk these growths on a regular basis they become very inflammed and grow to the size of almonds behind each ear. I am allergic to nickle but avoid that metal at all costs. I do have a pierced left ear lobe but only use true gold studs.

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Proper ENT evaluation should be done. Detailed Answer: Hello Thanks for writing to XXXXXXX From history,it seems that your disease is chronic in nature. You should be properly examined and investigated. There must be some underlying cause that leads to your problem so it needs to be investigated. First your mastoid needs to be examined.It may lead to such nodules,but you didn't mentioned about any hearing problem or any discharge from ear.Any way,it is routine in such cases. You can consult ENT specialist. You also need investigation like routine hemogram,RBS,Pus culture and sensitivity. It may also be due to inadequate& inappropriate antibiotic therapy,so antibiotics should be prescribed after culture and sensitivity report. CT Scan may be needed to confirm extension of disease internally. Get well soon Hope i have answered your query. Further queries are most welcome. Take Care Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar