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The ear and its malformations: strange beliefs and misconceptions
Irene E Gamatsi1, Thomas P Nikolopoulos, Dimitra E Lioumi
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Thriasion General Hospital, Athens, Greece.
British Journal of Plastic Surgery
|July 23, 2003
Summary
Ancient beliefs about ear malformations were often superstitious, linking them to prophecy and hereditary disorders. These historical misconceptions continue to influence modern perceptions and drive the urgency for surgical correction to avoid social stigma.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Medical History
- Anthropology
Background:
- Ear malformations have been documented and subject to interpretation throughout human history.
- Beliefs surrounding congenital ear anomalies have evolved from ancient civilizations to the present day.
Observation:
- Ancient Assyrian and Babylonian cultures documented congenital ear dysplasias, associating them with prophetic meanings and hereditary disorders dating back to the 4th millennium BC.
- Egyptian, Greek, and Roman medicine proposed unusual connections between the ear and other body parts, with similar notions persisting through later centuries.
- Hebrew and Greek-Byzantine societies emphasized physical perfection, leading to the exclusion and even mutilation of individuals with ear malformations.
Findings:
- A long history of diverse misconceptions surrounds congenital malformations of the pinna and external ear canal.
- These historical beliefs have contributed to persistent societal and psychological pressures regarding ear deformities.
Implications:
- Misconceptions about ear malformations can create significant anxiety for parents and patients.
- There is often pressure on Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) and plastic surgeons to perform timely corrections to mitigate potential psychological and social issues.