A cholesteatoma is a type of cyst found in the middle ear behind the eardrum. Cholesteatoma is a noncancerous tumor that forms when the skin of a perforated eardrum grows through the hole in the middle ear. If there is an ear infection, the skin will continue to grow into a cholesteatoma.
While the tumors are benign, the growths can cause damage to the ears by destroying bones in the ear and causing hearing problems. The tumors may also cause nerve damage, hearing loss, deafness, dizziness, and balance problems.
Cholesteatoma is a serious medical problem, and early treatment is crucial for a positive prognosis. Serious complications may occur if the tumor goes untreated, including destruction of both the middle ear structures causing
hearing loss,
and inner ear structures causing
vertigo
. Spreading of infection to the brain can lead to
meningitis
and brain abscess.
Cholesteatoma responds well to treatments. Patients are likely to recover fully without complications if the tumor is caught and treated early.
Cholesteatomas are most often caused by:
- Ear infections
- Congenital defects
- Poorly functioning Eustachian tube
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
The following factors increase your chance of developing cholesteatoma:
Symptoms include:
- Discharge from the ear, sometimes foul-smelling
- Pressure in the ear
- Hearing loss
- Earache
- Numbness of the ear
- Dizziness
- Muscle weakness in the face on the affected side
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include the following:
- Hearing tests
- Balance tests
- CT Scan
—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body
- Electronystagmography—used to test the function of the nerves related to hearing
- Caloric Stimulation—a test which diagnoses nerve damage to the ear
- X-ray
—a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Thorough cleaning of the ear is necessary to remove fluid and bacteria. Eardrops are also usually administered.
Surgery may be necessary if the tumor is threatening hearing or balance.
Medications are necessary to dry up the fluid in the ear and include ear drops and oral antibiotics. Antibiotics are prescribed to eliminate any infection in the ear.
Cholesteatomas caused by congenital defects cannot be prevented. However, proper treatment of ear infections can prevent cholesteatoma.
Last reviewed August 2007 by Elie Edmond Rebeiz, MD, FACS
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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