External Ear Chondritis/abscess

Description

Inflammation and/or infection of the pinna

Etiology

• Mechanism:
  • Cartilage of the external ear is easily damaged due to:
    • Lack of overlying subcutaneous tissue
    • Relative avascularity
    • Exposed position
  • Chondritis:
    • Most commonly a secondary complication of otic trauma and burns
    • Onset is often insidious and may be delayed until apparent healing has occurred
• Improper management may cause disfiguration of the pinna secondary to cartilage avascular necrosis:
  • Ranges from being a shriveled, cauliflower-like ear to complete loss of the external ear and possible stenosis of the auditory meatus
• Frequently missed in elderly and patients with altered mental status
• Causes:
  • Common causes of chondritis include:
    • Chemical or thermal burns
    • Frostbite
    • Hematoma formation
    • Trauma
    • Human/insect bites
    • Deep abrasions
    • External otitis
    • High piercing of the ear lobe especially with poor technique, hygiene, and aftercare
  • Bacteria involved:
    • Pseudomonas aeruginosa
    • Staphylococcus
    • Proteus