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Benign Ear Cyst or Tumor
Alternate Names : Cysts - Ear, Ear Cysts, Ear Tumors, Exostoses, Osteomas, Tumor - Ear
DefinitionBenign ear cysts are noncancerous lumps or growths within the canal of the ear, pinna, or other parts of the ear.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Sebaceous cysts are the most common cysts seen in the ear. They are bulging, sac-like collections of dead skin cells and oils produced by oil glands in the skin.
They commonly occur behind the ear, within the ear canal, or on the scalp. The exact cause is unknown, but cysts may occur when oils are produced in a skin gland faster than they can be excreted out of the gland. If the cysts within the ear canal get infected, they are extremely painful.
Benign bony tumors of the ear canal (exostoses and osteomas) may be caused by an overgrowth of bone. Repeated exposure to cold water may increase the risk of benign tumors of the ear canal. Tumors may grow large enough to block the ear canal, trap wax in the canal, and interfere with hearing.
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• Definition
• Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Symptoms & Signs
• Diagnosis & Tests
• Treatment
• Prognosis
• Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Fecal Impaction
• Sebaceous Cyst
Tests & Exams
• Caloric Stimulation
• Electronystagmography
Other Topics
• Benign
• Cysts
• Earache
• Hearing Loss
Review Date : 2/5/2003
Reviewed By : Edward Chang, MD, DDS, Facial Reconstructive Surgical and Medical Center, Palo Alto California. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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