Papilloma of the external auditory canal is a benign tumor that occurs in the skin of the cartilaginous part of the external auditory canal. It results from the long-term stimulation and proliferation of squamous or basal cells. This condition is more common in southern China and predominantly affects males. The pathological changes and occurrence are similar to those found in the skin of other parts of the body.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

Early-stage tumors often present no symptoms. When they fill the external auditory canal, they may cause a sense of blockage, itching, or hearing loss. There is often bleeding from ear cleaning or the removal of "fleshy" masses. Secondary infections can lead to ear pain and pus discharge. Examination may reveal single or multiple, rough-surfaced, pedunculated or sessile, brownish-yellow masses of varying sizes in the external auditory canal, which are hard to the touch. Infected masses may become congested and swollen, resembling granulation tissue. Those with local circulatory disturbances may turn black and partially shed naturally. Rapidly proliferating tumors may invade the middle ear and mastoid, occasionally forming fistulas in the auricle. This condition has a tendency to become malignant, so it is important to check for swollen lymph nodes around the ear.

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Small, non-infectious tumors can be diagnosed based on their appearance, but most should be confirmed through pathological examination.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

Complete resection is necessary, and anti-inflammatory treatment should be administered first if there is infection. Since the tumor is highly prone to recurrence, post-operative application of silver nitrate, Java brucea fruit oil, 25% common dysosmatis rhizome and root tincture, or interferon should be applied to the wound, along with electrocautery. For cases involving the middle ear mastoid, a radical mastoidectomy should be performed. Post-operative radiotherapy is required if malignancy is present.