Ossification of the external ear: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

A rare case of idiopathic bilateral ossification of the auricular cartilage and cartilage of the external ear canal is reported. The hardening and thickening of the external ear canals with subsequent narrowing and impaired exposure resulted in symptomatic hearing loss because of the recurrent impediment of inspissated cerumen, the removal of which finally became impossible. Surgical resection of the cartilage external ear canal and tragus was indicated to provide a more permanent treatment of conductive hearing loss. Histological examination revealed complete replacement of the fibroelastic cartilage by normal bone structures showing Haversian canals and bone marrow. The present case report is unique because of the involvement of both the auricles and external ear canals, the symptomatic hearing loss and the surgical treatment to relieve symptoms.