Overview
Growth over the pinna (outer ear) can range from benign cysts and keloids to more concerning skin lesions. Keloids are firm, rubbery, fibrous nodules that form after injury or trauma (like ear piercing) and can be itchy or painful.
Common symptoms
- Visible lump on the ear lobe or cartilage
- Growth that extends beyond the original site of injury (Keloids)
- Itchiness, tenderness, or pain
- Redness or change in skin colour
When to see an ENT
- The growth is rapidly increasing in size
- The lump is painful or bleeding
- The growth interferes with wearing glasses or hearing aids
- Concern about the appearance or nature of the growth
What we do
- Thorough physical examination of the outer ear
- Review of history (e.g., piercing, trauma)
- Biopsy of the lesion if indicated to rule out malignancy
Treatment options
- Keloids: Corticosteroid injections, pressure earrings, or surgical excision with adjuvant therapy
- Cysts: Simple surgical excision
- Skin lesions: Surgical removal and histological assessment