Medical Spotlight: Cholesteatoma
According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery a cholesteatoma is an abnormal skin growth in the middle ear behind the eardrum. The Academy states that cholesteatomas often develop as cysts or pouches that shed layers of old skin, which build up inside the middle ear. Over time, the cholesteatoma can increase in size and destroy the surrounding delicate bones of the middle ear leading to hearing loss that surgery can often improve.
Symptoms: Hearing loss, recurring ear infections, and drainage from the ear canal.
The drainage may have a bad smell. It may also be discolored. As the cholesteatoma enlarges, it can cause a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, along with hearing loss. Slight pain and discomfort can also be a symptom of an enlarging cholesteatoma.
Cholesteatoma is a serious but treatable and manageable ear condition! A cholesteatoma can be diagnosed only by medical examination and by a trained medical doctor. Bone erosion can cause the infection to spread into the surrounding areas, including the inner ear and brain and occurs when cholesteatomas go untreated.
Treatment: See a trained Surgeon!
A neurotologist can confirm the presence of a cholesteatoma. Initial treatment may consist of a careful cleaning of the ear, antibiotics, and ear drops. As the cholesteatoma continues to grow surgical intervention may be needed.
Contact a medical doctor ASAP if you believe you could be suffering from a cholesteatoma!
References:
American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery