Bilateral Posterior Auricular Masses: A Case of Kimura’s Disease

Abstract

Kimura’s disease (KD) is currently considered a rare chronic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. It is more common in the Asian population, especially in young and middle-aged men, and can involve the lymph nodes, salivary glands, and subcutaneous tissues. It has been reported in adults and children, and is often accompanied by elevated peripheral blood eosinophils and elevated serum immunoglobulin E (IgE). Herein, we report a case of KD in a 46-year-old man with bilateral masses behind the ears since childhood that had gradually enlarged over 40 years. The patient’s peripheral blood eosinophils were elevated, and interestingly, homocysteine levels were also elevated. After surgical resection of the bilateral posterior auricular masses, follow-up over 5 years indicated good recovery and no signs of recurrence.