Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 7, 2026
04:34
Surgical Treatment of an Endolymphatic Sac Tumor
Published on: May 26, 2023
Prevalence of the petrified ear: a computed tomographic study
1Department of Clinical Radiology, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Göttingen, Weende, An der Lutter 24, 37074, Göttingen, Germany, johannesgossner@gmx.de.
Summary
Calcifications and ossifications of the outer ear cartilage, known as petrified ear, are common incidental findings. While the condition itself is frequent, symptomatic cases appear rare, necessitating awareness for differential diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Petrified ear, characterized by calcifications/ossifications of outer ear cartilage, is often considered rare.
- The actual prevalence of these findings, particularly asymptomatic ones, remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of ossifications/calcifications in the cartilaginous parts of the outer ear.
- To compare the frequency of these findings with existing literature and assess their clinical significance.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 200 computed tomographic (CT) scans of the head.
- Evaluation of ossifications/calcifications in the auricle and cartilaginous external auditory canal.
Main Results:
- Ossifications/calcifications were found in 19.5% of patients (39 out of 200).
- Auricular cartilage was affected in 6.5% and the external auditory canal in 12.5%; 0.5% had both.
- All identified ossifications/calcifications were incidental findings.
Conclusions:
- Contrary to previous reports, auricular ossifications/calcifications appear to be a common finding.
- Symptomatic petrified ear is rare, but awareness is crucial for accurate differential diagnosis by radiologists and otorhinolaryngologists.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
DefinitionComputed Tomography (CT) of the genitourinary (GU) tract is a non-invasive imaging modality that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and adjacent structures such as the adrenal glands.PurposeCT scans of the GU tract serve several diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Diseases: Detects kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and congenital...
01:10Computed Tomography
Tomography refers to imaging by sections. Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses computers to analyze several cross-sectional X-rays to reveal minute details about structures in the body.
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
01:29Positron Emission Tomography
Positron emission tomography (PET) is a medical imaging technique involving radiopharmaceuticals — substances that emit short-lived radiation. Although the first PET scanner was introduced in 1961, it took 15 more years before radiopharmaceuticals were combined with the technique and revolutionized its potential.
One of the main requirements of a PET scan is a positron-emitting radioisotope, which is produced in a cyclotron and then attached to a substance used by the part of the body being...
One of the main requirements of a PET scan is a positron-emitting radioisotope, which is produced in a cyclotron and then attached to a substance used by the part of the body being...
01:16Anatomy of the Ear
Auditory sensation, commonly called hearing, involves the transformation of sonic waves into neural impulses facilitated by the structures of the auditory organ. The prominent, flesh-like structure on the side of the head, called the auricle, directs sound waves towards the auditory canal. The auricle is often mislabeled as the pinna, a term more aligned with mobile structures like a feline's external ear. The auditory canal penetrates the cranium via the external auditory meatus of the...