Aural polyps

Answer 1

Definition

An aural polyp is a growth in the outside (external) ear canal. It may be attached to the eardrum (tympanic membrane), or it may grow from the middle ear space.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Aural polyps may be caused by:

• Cholesteatoma
• Foreign object
• Inflammation
• Tumor

References

Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo; Mosby; 2005.

Answer 2

Definition

An aural polyp is a growth in the outside (external) ear canal. It may be attached to the eardrum (tympanic membrane), or it may grow from the middle ear space.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Aural polyps may be caused by:

• Cholesteatoma
• Foreign object
• Inflammation
• Tumor

Symptoms

Bloody drainage from the ear is the most common symptom. Hearing loss can also occur.

Signs and tests

An aural polyp is diagnosed through an examination of the ear canal and middle ear using an otoscope or microscope.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Your doctor may first recommend:

• Avoiding water in the ear
• Steroid medications
• Antibiotic ear drops

If a cholesteatoma is the underlying problem or the condition fails to clear, then surgery may be needed.

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you have bleeding from an ear.

References

Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo; Mosby; 2005.

Reviewed By

Review Date: 08/03/2010

Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Seth Schwartz, MD, MPH, Otolaryngologist, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.