Overview
A cholesteatoma is an abnormal, non-cancerous skin growth that can develop in the middle section of your ear, behind the eardrum. It often develops as a cyst or pouch that sheds layers of old skin. Over time, it can increase in size and destroy the surrounding delicate bones of the middle ear.
Common symptoms
- Persistent ear discharge, often with a foul smell
- Pressure or a feeling of fullness in the ear
- Gradual hearing loss in the affected ear
- Earache or pain behind or in the ear
- Dizziness or muscle weakness on one side of the face (advanced cases)
When to see an ENT
- You have persistent ear discharge that doesn't respond to drops
- New or worsening hearing loss
- Dizziness or balance issues associated with ear symptoms
- A history of chronic middle ear infections or eardrum perforations
What we do
- Detailed ear examination using a microscope
- Hearing tests (audiogram) to assess the impact on hearing and the middle ear bones
- Imaging (CT scan) to determine the extent of the growth and any bone destruction
Management
- Cleaning and managing ear infections with drops
- Surgery (Mastoidectomy/Tympanoplasty): Most cholesteatomas require surgical removal to prevent serious complications like brain abscess or meningitis, and to repair damaged ear structures.