Strange Scab-Like Growth Behind My Ear
I’m a 31-year-old female, and for almost a year, I’ve noticed an unusual growth behind my ear. This issue escalated to the point where it spread into my ear canal, leading to an infection that resulted in a fever and necessitated antibiotic treatment. Although the antibiotics successfully addressed the infection, the skin condition persisted. It remained inactive until about three weeks ago when it became aggravated. During my sleep, I tend to scratch at it, which often causes the scab to detach. Typically, I notice scaly scabs forming in its place. Unfortunately, these scabs emit an unpleasant odor and occasionally ooze pus and blood. I’m seeking advice on this matter as I have already tried various ointments prescribed by my dermatologist, but none have proven effective.
Answers (1)
2/11/2026, 8:02:01 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a persistently troubling skin condition that has developed complications, including an infection. Persistent lesions with oozing, unpleasant odors, and scabbing can indicate a chronic issue that requires careful management.
Understanding Your Condition
The growth behind your ear may be a form of dermatitis, an infected cyst, or another type of skin lesion. The scratching and subsequent infection you've experienced could be exacerbating the issue. Since topical treatments from your dermatologist haven’t worked, this might imply that the skin condition requires a different approach or diagnosis.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Protect the Area: Avoid scratching the area as it can lead to further irritation and risk of infection. Consider wearing a soft bandage when sleeping to minimize damage from scratching.
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Maintain Hygiene: Keep the affected area clean and dry. Use a mild soap to gently wash the area daily, avoiding harsh irritants. Pat it dry instead of rubbing it.
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Topical Treatment: Continue using any prescribed ointments as directed, but monitor their effectiveness. You might also try over-the-counter options like hydrocortisone cream if recommended, as these can help reduce inflammation.
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Identify Triggers: Take note of any potential triggers that worsen your condition, such as allergies, skincare products, or stress. Keeping a diary of flare-ups may help identify patterns.
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Follow Up with a Specialist: Since you've had limited success with your current dermatologist’s treatments, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another dermatologist or a specialist in skin conditions. Bring along your treatment history and any notes about changes or patterns you’ve observed.
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Watch for Changes: Keep an eye on the growth for any significant changes, such as increased size, changes in color, or more frequent infections. Document these changes, as they will be important for your healthcare provider to see.
Empathetic Note
I understand this situation is frustrating and concerning, especially after it has persisted for such a long time. It’s important to continue seeking effective care options and not to hesitate in asking for further evaluations or alternative treatments. Please take good care of yourself, and know that finding the right approach can take time.
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