Medically reviewed by John Carew, MD A lump on the side of the neck could be a swollen lymph node caused by a bacterial or ...

A less likely cause is cancer, such as tumors caused by salivary gland cancer, lymphoma, or basal cell carcinoma. A diagnosis by a healthcare provider may be needed if a lump behind the ear ...

Parotid means it's near your ear ... They'll also ask about pain and numbness, or if your lump has been getting bigger. Your doctor will measure the size of the lump in your mouth, too.