Aural polyps
Otic polypAn aural polyp is a growth in the outside (external) ear canal or middle ear. It may be attached to the eardrum (tympanic membrane), or it may grow from the middle ear space.
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Causes
Aural polyps may be caused by:
- Cholesteatoma
- Foreign object
- Inflammation
- Tumor
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Symptoms
Bloody drainage from the ear is the most common symptom. Hearing loss can also occur.
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Exams and Tests
An aural polyp is diagnosed through an exam of the ear canal and middle ear using an otoscope or microscope.
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Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Your health care provider may first recommend:
- Avoiding water in the ear
- Steroid medicines
- Antibiotic ear drops
If a cholesteatoma is the underlying problem or the condition fails to clear, then surgery may be needed.
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When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your health care provider if you have severe pain, bleeding from an ear or a sharp decrease in hearing.
References
Chi DH, Tobey A. Otolaryngology. In: Zitelli, BJ, McIntire SC, Nowalk AJ, Garrison J, eds. Zitelli and Davis' Atlas of Pediatric Physical Diagnosis. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 24.
Chole RA, Sharon JD. Chronic otitis media, mastoiditis, and petrositis. In: Flint PW, Francis HW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 140.
McHugh JB. Ear. In: Goldblum JR, Lamps LW, McKenney JK, Myers JL, eds. Rosai and Ackerman's Surgical Pathology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 7.