Cholesteatoma (skin growth in the middle ear)

Overview

A cholesteatoma is a pocket of skin cells that grows behind the eardrum, often after repeated ear infections.

It can slowly erode the small ear bones and nearby bone, so it needs surgery.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Smelly ear drainage
• Fluid or blood draining from the ear, or a burst eardrum
• Trouble hearing

Less common

• Hearing loss
• Dizziness

When to get medical care

Causes

Ear infections.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Ear exam:
• CT:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Keep ear dry
• Keep water out of the ear
• Don't use cotton swabs
• Keep follow-up visits after surgery

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Treat ear infections fully

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children with repeat ear infections: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Surgery removes it; checkups watch for regrowth.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Cholesteatoma (skin growth in the middle ear)