Although most tumors that originate in the external auditory canal are benign inflammatory polyps related to ear infections, a variety of other benign and malignant tumors occur there as well. This photograph of a right ear shows a squamous cell carcinoma in the external auditory canal. The mass appears to be attached to the skin of the anterior canal wall. Hair is seen extending from the posterior-superior skin of the ear canal. The surface of the tumor has white, irregular protuberances and an appearance that suggests carcinoma. At the inferior portion of the mass is evidence of a recent biopsy.
Carcinoma of the external auditory canal is frequently accompanied by persistent otalgia. Unusually severe and persistent pain and tenderness are characteristic of adenoid cystic carcinoma. Diagnosis should be made without delay.
Treatment involves wide surgical excision of the external auditory canal, the tympanic membrane, and the condyle of the mandible along with total parotidectomy (canalectomy) as described by Pulec. (1) In some cases, temporal bone resection and radical neck dissection may be required.
Reference
(1.) Pulec JL. Glandular tumors of the external auditory canal. Laryngoscope 1977;87:1601-12.
From the Pulec Ear Clinic, Los Angeles (Dr. Pulec). and Gap, France (Dr. Deguine).
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