Cholesteatoma (middle ear mass)
About Cholesteatoma (middle ear mass)
A mass of tissue which develops in the middle ear or in the eardrum. It usually occurs in situations where the eustachian tube is blocked. Negative pressure in the middle ear creates a sac or cyst that fills with old skin cells and other waste material. The cyst may become infected, and may get bigger breaking down some of the middle ear bones, affecting hearing.Symptoms
Ear pain, dizziness, decreased hearing, drainage from the ear.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests include: CT scan, and/or electronystagmography.Common tests: CT Scan.
Conventional treatment summary
Cholesteatomas usually continue to grow and require surgical removal. An ear exam may show a pocket or perforation (opening) in the eardrum, often with drainage. The deposit of old skin cells may be visible with a microscope or an otoscope, a special instrument to view the ear. Sometimes a mass of blood vessels may be seen in the ear.Medical specialties
Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) · Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Cholesteatoma (middle ear mass).