Benign ear cyst or tumor

Alternative names:

cysts - ear; ear cysts; ear tumors; exostoses; osteomas; tumors - ear

Definition:

A disorder in which there are noncancerous lumps or growths within the canal of the ear, pinna, or other parts of the ear.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Sebaceous cysts are the most common cysts seen in the ear. The are bulging, sac-like collections of dead skin cells and oils produced by the skin glands (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. Cysts within the ear canal can be 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.