Cholesteatoma

Cholesteatoma – A Serious Middle Ear Condition

Cholesteatoma is an unusual, noncancerous growth of skin cells in the middle ear and mastoid bone, usually caused by repeated infections or poor Eustachian tube function, leading to a buildup of dead skin and waste. This expansion over time can spread and destroy the delicate structures of the ear, particularly the ossicles—which enable hearing.
Cholesteatoma, if left untreated, usually presents with symptoms such as constant ear leakage, hearing loss, a sensation of fullness in the ear, dizziness, and occasionally pain, and can lead to meningitis, brain infections, and facial paralysis, among other serious problems.
An otoscopic study and CT scans, among other imaging tests, help to diagnose a condition. Since the development does not clear on its own, the main course of treatment is surgical removal. Clearing the infection and restoring ear function can be achieved via a mastoidectomy or tympanoplasty. Preventing recurrence depends on post-surgery follow-ups.
Complications can be avoided mostly by early identification and medical intervention. See an ENT expert for assessment and treatment if you have ongoing ear discharge or chronic ear infections.