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Benign ear cyst or tumor

Osteomas; Exostoses; Tumor - ear; Cysts - ear; Ear cysts; Ear tumors; Bony tumor of the ear canal

 

Benign ear cysts are lumps or growths in the ear. They are benign.

Causes

 

Sebaceous cysts are the most common type of cysts seen in the ear. These sack-like lumps are made up of dead skin cells and oils produced by oil glands in the skin.

Places they are likely to be found include:

  • Behind the ear
  • In the ear canal
  • In the earlobe
  • On the scalp

The exact cause of the problem is unknown. Cysts may occur when oils are produced in a skin gland faster than they can be released from the gland. They can also occur if the oil gland opening has become blocked and a cyst forms under the skin.

Benign bony tumors of the ear canal (exostoses and osteomas) are caused by excess growth of bone. Repeated exposure to cold water may increase the risk of benign bony tumors of the ear canal.

 

Symptoms

 

The symptoms of cysts include:

  • Pain (if cysts are in the outside ear canal or if they get infected)
  • Small soft skin lumps on, behind, or in front of the ear

The symptoms of benign tumors include:

  • Ear discomfort
  • Gradual hearing loss in one ear
  • Repeated outer ear infections

Note: There may be no symptoms.

 

Exams and Tests

 

Benign cysts and tumors are most often found during a routine ear exam. This type of exam may include hearing tests ( audiometry ) and middle ear testing ( tympanometry ). When looking into the ear, the health care provider may see cysts or benign tumors in the ear canal.

Sometimes, a CT scan is needed.

This disease may also affect the results of the following tests:

  • Caloric stimulation
  • Electronystagmography

 

Treatment

 

Treatment is not needed if the cyst does not cause pain or affect hearing.

If a cyst becomes painful, it may be infected. Treatment may include antibiotics or removal of the cyst.

Benign bony tumors may increase in size over time. Surgery may be needed if a benign tumor is painful, interferes with hearing, or leads to frequent ear infections.

 

Outlook (Prognosis)

 

Benign ear cysts and tumors are slow-growing. They may sometimes shrink or may disappear on their own.

 

Possible Complications

 

Complications may include:

  • Hearing loss, if the tumor is large
  • Infection of the cyst
  • Infection of the ear canal
  • Wax trapped in the ear canal

 

When to Contact a Medical Professional

 

Call your provider if you have:

  • Symptoms of a benign ear cyst or tumor
  • Discomfort, pain, or hearing loss

 

 

Open References

References

Nicolai P, Castelnuovo P. Benign tumors of the sinonasal tract. In: Flint PW, Haughey BH, Lund V, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery . 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 48.

O'Handley JG, Tobin EJ, Shah AR. Otorhinolaryngology. In: Rakel RE, Rakel DP, eds. Textbook of Family Medicine . 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 18.

Warren FM, Shelton C, Hamilton BE, Wiggins RH. Neuroradiology of the temporal bone and skull base. In: Flint PW, Haughey BH, Lund V, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery . 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 135.

 
  • Ear anatomy

    Ear anatomy - illustration

    The ear consists of external, middle, and inner structures. The eardrum and the 3 tiny bones conduct sound from the eardrum to the cochlea.

    Ear anatomy

    illustration

    • Ear anatomy

      Ear anatomy - illustration

      The ear consists of external, middle, and inner structures. The eardrum and the 3 tiny bones conduct sound from the eardrum to the cochlea.

      Ear anatomy

      illustration

    A Closer Look

     

    Talking to your MD

     

      Self Care

       

        Tests for Benign ear cyst or tumor

         
           

          Review Date: 5/25/2016

          Reviewed By: Sumana Jothi, MD, specialist in laryngology, Assistant Clinical Professor, UCSF Otolaryngology, NCHCS VA, SFVA, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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