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Updated: Apr 15, 2026
Endoscopic Cholesteatoma Surgery
Published on: January 19, 2022
Updates and knowledge gaps in cholesteatoma research
Chin-Lung Kuo1, An-Suey Shiao2, Matthew Yung3
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Section 2, Shipai Road, Beitou District, Taipei City 11217, Taiwan ; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming University, No. 155, Section 2, Linong Street, Taipei City 11221, Taiwan ; Department of Otolaryngology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, No. 155, Section 2, Linong Street, Taipei City 11221, Taiwan ; Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital, No. 168, Zhongxing Road, Longtan District, Taoyuan City 32551, Taiwan ; Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Section 2, Chenggong Road, Neihu District, Taipei City 114, Taiwan.
Abstract:
The existence of acquired cholesteatoma has been recognized for more than three centuries; however, the nature of the disorder has yet to be determined. Without timely detection and intervention, cholesteatomas can become dangerously large and invade intratemporal structures, resulting in numerous intra- and extracranial complications. Due to its aggressive growth, invasive nature, and the potentially fatal consequences of intracranial complications, acquired cholesteatoma remains a cause of morbidity and death for those who lack access to advanced medical care. Currently, no viable nonsurgical therapies are available. Developing an effective management strategy for this disorder will require a comprehensive understanding of past progress and recent advances. This paper presents a brief review of background issues related to acquired middle ear cholesteatoma and deals with practical considerations regarding the history and etymology of the disorder. We also consider issues related to the classification, epidemiology, histopathology, clinical presentation, and complications of acquired cholesteatoma and examine current diagnosis and management strategies in detail.
