Exostoses of the external auditory canal

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Paleopathology
• Environmental Medicine

Background:

• Aural exostoses are benign bony growths originating from the tympanic ring of the external auditory canal.
• Historically linked to mechanical stress and chronic ear infections, current prevalence is associated with prolonged cold water exposure (aquatic theory).
• The condition has evolved with human history, reflecting changes in environmental and lifestyle factors causing irritation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence and characteristics of symptomatic external auditory canal exostoses in a coastal population.
• To analyze the relationship between aquatic activities and the development of aural exostoses.
• To present findings on the thermal characteristics of water bodies implicated in exostoses development.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 11,000 patient examinations over a ten-year period by an otolaryngologist in a coastal region.
• Identification and documentation of symptomatic cases of external auditory canal exostoses.
• Assessment of patient history related to aquatic exposure and environmental factors.

Main Results:

• Identified 70 cases of symptomatic aural exostoses, with an incidence of 6.36 per 1,000 patients.
• The disease predominantly affects males and is linked to prolonged aquatic exposure.
• Symptoms of obstruction and conductive hearing loss typically manifest after approximately ten years of exposure.

Conclusions:

• Prolonged exposure to cold water is the primary etiological factor for contemporary aural exostoses.
• Early identification and awareness of risk factors, particularly for males engaged in aquatic activities, are crucial.
• Further research into the thermal properties of water and their role in exostoses development is warranted.