Benign tumors of the ear canal

Benign tumors may develop anywhere in the ear canal. Common types include keloids, osteomas, and sebaceous cysts; their causes vary. (See Causes and characteristics of benign ear tumors.) These tumors seldom become malignant; with proper treatment, the prognosis is excellent.

Signs and symptoms

A benign ear tumor is usually asymptomatic, unless it becomes infected, in which case pain, fever, or inflammation may result. (Pain is usually a sign of a malignant tumor.) If the tumor grows large enough to obstruct the ear canal by itself or through accumulated cerumen and debris, it may cause hearing loss and the sensation of pressure.

Diagnosis

CONFIRMING DIAGNOSIS Clinical features and patient history suggest a benign tumor of the ear canal; otoscopy confirms it. To rule out cancer, a biopsy may be necessary.

Treatment

Generally, a benign tumor requires surgical excision if it obstructs the ear canal, is cosmetically undesirable, or becomes malignant.

Treatment for keloids may include surgery followed by repeated injections of long-acting steroids into the suture line. Excision must be complete, but even this may not prevent recurrence.

Surgical excision of an osteoma consists of elevating the skin from the surface of the bony growth and shaving the osteoma with a mechanical burr or drill.

Before surgery, a sebaceous cyst requires preliminary treatment with antibiotics, to reduce inflammation. To prevent recurrence, excision must be complete, including the sac or capsule of the cyst.

Special considerations

Because treatment for benign ear tumors generally doesn’t require hospitalization, focus care on emotional support and providing appropriate patient education so that the patient follows his therapeutic plan properly when he’s at home.

❑ Thoroughly explain diagnostic procedures and treatment to the patient and his family. Reassure them and answer any questions they may have.

❑ After surgery, instruct the patient in good aural hygiene. Until his ear is completely healed, advise him not to insert anything into his ear or allow water to get into it. Suggest that he cover his ears with a cap when showering.

❑ Teach the patient how to recognize signs of infection, such as pain, fever, localized redness, and swelling. If he detects any of these signs, instruct him to report them immediately.

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Book Source Details

• Book Title: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition)
• Author(s): Springhouse
• Year of Publication: 2005
• Copyright Details: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition), Copyright © 2005 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

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Copyright Details: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition), Copyright © 2008 Williams & Wilkins.

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More About This Book: Title: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition) Authors: Springhouse Publisher: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Copyright: 2005 ISBN: 1-58255-370-X

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