Final answer:
A lesion anterior to the earlobe and swollen Stensen's duct suggests an issue with the parotid gland or its drainage system; initial checks involve a physical examination, with possible follow-up imaging or blood tests, and assessment of related ear structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient presents with a lesion that is anterior to the earlobe and swollen, accompanied by inflammation of Stensen's duct, the primary concern would be an infection or obstruction of the parotid gland, through which this duct is responsible for draining saliva into the mouth. In such a situation, the first check would usually be a physical examination to assess for any signs of infection or blockage such as erythema, warmth, pain, or pus. If the parotid gland is suspected to be involved, further investigation with imaging studies, like an ultrasound or a sialogram, and potentially a blood test for signs of infection, might be the next steps. Additionally, reviewing the patient's symptoms and medical history is crucial for a proper diagnosis. Conditions such as mumps, parotitis, or a stone in Stensen's duct could cause similar symptoms.
Ensuring there is no damage to the ear structures, including the tympanic membrane and the middle ear bones, is also important, especially if there are symptoms like ear pain, hearing loss, or changes in balance. As the auditory structures are closely related anatomically, conditions affecting the external ear could potentially impact the middle ear.