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The First Reported Case of Recurrent Carcinoid Tumor in the External Auditory Canal
Hilary C McCrary1, Erynne A Faucett, Saranya Reghunathan
1*The University of Arizona College of Medicine †Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery ‡Department of Pathology §Department of Medical Imaging, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona.
Summary
This case report details the first known instance of a recurrent carcinoid tumor in the external auditory canal (EAC). A lateral temporal bone resection successfully treated the rare neuroendocrine lesion.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Pathology
- Neuroendocrinology
Background:
- Cutaneous neuroendocrine lesions of the external auditory canal (EAC) are exceptionally rare.
- Only five cases have been previously reported in the literature.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old woman presented with otalgia, aural fullness, and decreased hearing.
- She had a history of a resected EAC carcinoid tumor 8 years prior.
Findings:
- A recurrent carcinoid tumor involving the EAC, middle ear, and epitympanum was diagnosed.
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis, with no evidence of metastasis.
- Lateral temporal bone resection achieved complete tumor removal.
Implications:
- This case represents the first documented recurrence of a carcinoid tumor in the EAC.
- Lateral temporal bone resection is a viable treatment option for such rare tumors.
- Long-term follow-up with imaging and consideration for hearing rehabilitation are recommended.
