Painful nodule on the ear (chondrodermatitis nodularis)

Overview

Pressure on the ear cartilage cuts off blood flow.

It most often shows up on the rim of the ear that you sleep on.

Because skin cancers can look similar, a biopsy is often done.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Painful bump on the ear

Less common

• Crusting or scabbing

Look up a symptom: Red spot, bump, or patch on the skin

When to get medical care

Causes

Pressure.

Does it spread or run in families?

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

Who is more likely to get it

• Older adults

Possible complications

• Skin cancer

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Biopsy:

Treatment

Relieve pressure.

Self-care

• Sleep on the other side
• Use a pillow with a hole for the ear
• Sleep on the other side
• Use a pillow with a hole cut out for the ear
• Avoid tight headphones or hats

Steroid shot or removal.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Relieve pressure on the ear

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).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• National Eczema Association: Tips, product guide, and community for eczema.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Older adults: Most common after 50.

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

Treatable.

Often heals when pressure is removed.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Does this need a biopsy?

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 Painful nodule on the ear (chondrodermatitis nodularis)