Overview

Cholesteatoma is a rare but serious condition affecting the middle ear, where a cyst or abnormal skin growth develops. While not cancerous, it can cause significant complications if left untreated, including hearing loss, infections, and damage to nearby structures. Early diagnosis and treatment by an experienced ENT specialist are crucial for managing this condition effectively.

What is Cholesteatoma?

A cholesteatoma is a collection of skin cells and debris that forms a sac-like structure in the middle ear. Over time, it can enlarge and cause damage to the delicate bones of the ear, leading to hearing problems and other complications. Cholesteatomas are usually caused by repeated ear infections or poor Eustachian tube function, which can lead to negative pressure in the ear, pulling part of the eardrum inward to form the cyst.

Types of Cholesteatoma

1. Congenital Cholesteatoma:Present at birth, this type forms behind the eardrum without a history of ear infections or other ear problems.
2. Acquired Cholesteatoma: The more common type, usually resulting from chronic ear infections or eardrum perforations.

What Causes Cholesteatoma?

Cholesteatomas can arise from:

1. Chronic middle ear infections.
2. Eustachian tube dysfunction, which prevents proper drainage and ventilation of the middle ear.
3. Ear trauma or surgery that damages the eardrum.
4. Congenital factors, where a skin cyst is present from birth.

Symptoms of Cholesteatoma

Symptoms may vary depending on the size and severity of the cyst but commonly include:

1. Hearing Loss: Progressive hearing impairment is a key symptom.
2. Ear Discharge:Persistent foul-smelling fluid from the ear.
3. Ear Pain or Fullness: A feeling of pressure or discomfort in the affected ear.
4. Tinnitus: Ringing or buzzing sounds in the ear.
5. Dizziness or Vertigo:In cases where the inner ear is affected.

If left untreated, cholesteatoma can lead to serious complications, including facial nerve damage, brain abscesses, and meningitis.

How is Cholesteatoma Diagnosed?

An ENT specialist will perform a thorough evaluation to diagnose cholesteatoma:

1. Otoscopy:A detailed examination of the ear canal and eardrum.
2. Hearing Tests:To assess the impact on hearing.
3. CT Scan or MRI: To determine the extent of the cyst and any potential damage to surrounding structures.

Treatment Options for Cholesteatoma

Treatment depends on the size and severity of the cholesteatoma, but surgical removal is usually necessary to prevent complications.

Surgical Options

• Mastoidectomy: A common procedure to remove the cholesteatoma and affected tissues while preserving hearing as much as possible.
• Tympanoplasty:Reconstruction of the eardrum or middle ear structures, often performed alongside mastoidectomy.

Medical Management

• In cases of infection, antibiotics or ear drops may be prescribed before surgery to control inflammation.

Post-Surgical Care

• Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor for recurrence.
• Hearing rehabilitation may be required if hearing loss persists after surgery.

Preventing Cholesteatoma

While congenital cholesteatomas cannot be prevented, the acquired type can be avoided by:

1. Treating ear infections promptly and thoroughly.
2. Maintaining good ear hygiene and avoiding self-cleaning with foreign objects.
3. Regular check-ups with an ENT specialist if you have a history of chronic ear infections.

Why Choose Accord Superspeciality Hospital for ENT Care?

The ENT Department at Accord Superspeciality Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and a team of highly skilled specialists dedicated to diagnosing and treating complex ear conditions like cholesteatoma. Our patient-centric approach ensures:

• Advanced diagnostic techniques.
• Minimally invasive surgical options.
• Personalized post-treatment care for long-term health.

At Accord, we are committed to providing exceptional care to restore your hearing and enhance your quality of life.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of cholesteatoma, schedule a consultation with our expert ENT team at Accord Superspeciality Hospital. Early intervention can make all the difference in preserving your hearing and preventing complications. Let us help you take the first step toward better ear health.

Accord Superspeciality Hospital – Leading the Way in Advanced ENT Care.