Swollen Lymph Node Behind Ear

Lymphadenopathy is the term used for signifying enlargement or swelling of lymph nodes. Lymphatic system is a network of vessels and ducts that are responsible for bringing the interstitial fluid, i.e. the fluid that exists outside the blood vessels, back into the circulatory system. It is also associated with the production of antibodies like lymphocytes, which are an integral part of human immune system, i.e. they defend our body against the infectious agents like virus and bacteria.

Lymph nodes are small bean shaped cluster of cells that remain surrounded by a capsule. The cells of the lymph nodes are responsible for producing the antibodies to protect the body from diseases and infections. They also produce macrophages, a type of phagocyte that engulfs and digest debris and microorganisms. Though lymph nodes are present throughout the body, the regions which are more prone to be affected by the enlargement of lymph nodes are groin, armpit, neck and areas behind the ear.

Causes of Ear Lymph Node Swelling
Lymphadenopathy or swelling of lymph nodes can be either localized or generalized. If the enlargement of the lymph nodes are restricted to a particular region, then it is a localized lymphadenopathy. On the other hand, if the lymph nodes of the entire body are swelling, it is a case of generalized lymphadenopathy. The most common cause of lymph node enlargement including swollen lymph node behind ear, is infection, either localized or systemic. The lymph nodes usually swell up in response to infection, as they are associated with production of antibodies that fight the infectious agents. The infection that causes enlargement of the lymph nodes can be viral, fungal or bacterial. When a part or the entire body is infected by these microorganisms, the lymph nodes increase the production of antibodies in order to destroy these infectious agents. But, in the process, lymph nodes of some areas may enlarge. A swollen lymph node behind the ear, in particular can be associated with eye infection or infection around the scalp. It can also be a result of allergic reaction.

Ear infection can be another reason behind the development of swollen lymph node behind ear. Sometimes, build up of cancer or malignant cells in the lymph nodes can also cause their enlargement. In some instances, swollen lymph nodes can be an indicator of lymphoma or cancer of the lymph nodes. Leukemia or blood cancer can also result in enlargement of the lymph nodes. In all, accumulation of infection causing microorganisms like bacteria, virus and fungi or malignant cells are the main causes of swollen lymph nodes. In addition to these, sometimes autoimmune diseases like lupus, Hashimoto's disease, etc. can cause lymph nodes to swell. If the swollen lymph node behind the ear is also accompanied by other conditions like occipital lymph node swelling, hair loss and scalp scaling and itching, then it can be a sign of fungal infection.

Treatment Ear Lymph Node Swelling
Enlargement of lymph nodes including the one that occurs behind the ear can be painful or painless. Some of these swollen lymph nodes are soft, while others can be hard and rubbery. Generally, if they are not growing in size, then it is not a major health problem. But, nevertheless, it is important to know the causes for their enlargement. Therefore, a detailed study of such swollen nodes are carried out by the physicians to find out the causes behind their enlargement. Sometimes, CT scan, X-ray and biopsy are also required to determine the exact causes. The treatment of swollen lymph nodes including the one that appears behind the ear, depends mainly on the underlying causes.

A swollen lymph node behind ear or in any other area is usually not a very serious condition. However, if they are painful and also growing in size, then it is better to consult a physician to detect the underlying cause.