A cholesteatoma is a mass of tissue which develops in the middle ear or in the eardrum. It usually occurs in situations where the Eustachian tube is blocked. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the nasal cavity and allows pressure in the middle ear to be equalized. As the air within the middle ear is absorbed, the eardrum is bowed inwards. A cyst forms which gradually collects dead cells from the eardrum. Also, perforation of the eardrum can directly lead to a cyst within the middle ear. As the cholesteatoma increases in size, it can damage the hearing apparatus as well as the facial nerve, that controls movement of that side of the face. Infections can also occur within the cholesteatoma that may involve the middle ear or the overlying brain.
Causes of Cholesteatoma
Blockage of the Eustachian tube may occur after repeated middle ear infections of otitis media. In addition, congenital defects may occur that prevents the Eustachian tube from functioning as it should. Trauma to the eardrum can, also, cause the development of the cholesteatoma.
Signs and Symptoms of Cholesteatoma
The most prominent symptom is hearing loss, that can vary from mild to severe. Pus leaking out of the ear can occur. Local ear pain as well as headaches can occur. Dizziness, vertigo, and weakness or paralysis of that side of the face may develop. Fever may occur when the cholesteatoma becomes infected. If the overlying brain is involved, seizures may develop.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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