Cholesteatoma corresponds to the abnormal growth of skin inside the ear canal, behind the eardrum, which can be identified through the discharge of strong odor secretion from the ear, tinnitus and reduced hearing capacity, for example. According to the cause, cholesteatoma can be classified into:
- Acquired, which can happen due to perforation or invagination of the eardrum membrane or due to repeated or not properly treated ear infections; Congenital, in which the person is born with excess skin in the ear canal, however the reason why this happens is still unknown.
Cholesteatoma looks like a cyst, but it is not cancer. However, if it grows too much it may be necessary to resort to surgery to remove it, to avoid more serious damage, such as the destruction of the bones of the middle ear, changes in hearing, balance and the function of facial muscles.
What symptoms
Usually the symptoms associated with the presence of a cholesteatoma are mild, unless it grows excessively and begins to cause more serious problems in the ear, the main symptoms being observed:
- Release of secretion from the ear with strong odor; Sensation of pressure in the ear; Discomfort and ear pain; Decreased hearing capacity; Tinnitus; Dizziness.
In more severe cases, there may still be perforation of the eardrum, damage to the ear bones and brain, damage to the brain nerves, meningitis and abscess formation in the brain, which can put a person's life at risk. Thus, as soon as any symptoms related to cholesteatoma are noticed, it is important to consult the otorhinolaryngologist or general practitioner to avoid the development of cholesteatoma.
In addition to the symptoms already mentioned, this abnormal growth of cells inside the ear creates an environment conducive to the development of bacteria and fungi, which can cause ear infections, and inflammation and secretion release also appear. See other causes of ear discharge.
Possible causes
Cholesteatoma is usually caused by repeated infections of the ear or changes in the functioning of the auditory tube, which is a channel that connects the middle ear to the pharynx and helps to maintain the balance of air pressure between the two sides of the eardrum. These changes in the auditory tube can be caused by chronic ear infections, sinus infections, colds or allergies.
In rarer cases, cholesteatoma can develop in the baby during pregnancy, then it is called congenital cholesteatoma, in which tissue may grow in the middle ear or in other regions of the ear.
How the treatment is done
Treatment for cholesteatoma is done through surgery, in which excess tissue is removed from the ear. Before performing the surgical procedure, it may be necessary to use antibiotics, application of drops or ear and careful cleaning in order to treat a possible infection and reduce inflammation.
The surgery is done under general anesthesia and if the cholesteatoma has not caused serious complications, the recovery is usually quick, and the person can go home soon afterwards. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to stay in the hospital longer and resort to reconstructive surgery to repair the damage caused by cholesteatoma.
In addition, the cholesteatoma should be periodically evaluated to confirm that the removal was complete and that the cholesteatoma does not grow again.
