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External auditory canal paraganglioma: an atypical presentation
N Grover1, F Amen, A Gallimore
1ENT Department, Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital, London, UK. nancybatta@yahoo.com
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|October 2, 2012
Summary
A rare, painful paraganglioma in the external auditory canal presented atypically. Early imaging and biopsy are crucial for diagnosing unusual ear masses.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Paragangliomas are rare neuroendocrine tumors.
- External auditory canal masses can mimic common conditions like otitis externa.
Observation:
- A 49-year-old woman experienced otalgia, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
- Physical examination revealed a firm swelling in the left external auditory canal, initially diagnosed as otitis externa.
Findings:
- The mass showed minimal response to medical treatment and bled profusely upon aspiration.
- Computed tomography and biopsy confirmed a paraganglioma, though histopathology was atypical, complicating diagnosis.
- Surgical excision of the paraganglioma was performed.
Implications:
- Unusual external ear masses require high clinical suspicion, especially with atypical presentations.
- Early diagnostic intervention with imaging and biopsy is recommended for suspected tumors.
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare diagnoses in otolaryngology.
