There are several different types of lumps that can appear at
the hairline along the back of the neck. Common types of lumps
include: - Enlarged lymph nodes, also known as swollen glands.
Lymph nodes usually swell because of infections, such as ear
infections or infectious mononucleosis (mono). The lymph nodes
on the back of the neck can also swell due to irritation of the
scalp. Rarely, an enlarged lymph node on the back of the neck
can signal a more serious problem, such as a tumor. - Sebaceous
cysts. These are normal oil glands in the skin, which become
blocked and enlarged. They may be soft or firm. Occasionally, a
sebaceous cyst can become infected, which may make it red,
swollen and painful. - Lipomas. These are benign (noncancerous)
tumors produced by fat cells. Lipomas are usually soft and move
easily, and tend to grow slowly. They rarely cause serious
problems. See your doctor if you have a swollen lump on the back
of your neck thats been present for more than two to three
weeks, especially if the lu