Dermatoses of the External Ear

Abstract

AbstractThe complex embryological origin of the external ear explains developmental anomalies and some hearing abnormalities. The structure of the pinna, a cartilaginous framework beneath thin skin, contributes to some of these conditions, such as chondrodermatitis nodularis and pseudocyst of the auricle. Ear piercing has complications that present to the dermatologist. External otitis, particularly when chronic, is often multifactorial, reflecting the special environment of the skin of the ear canal. The pinna is sometimes the site of predilection for systemic diseases, such as alcaptonuria, leprosy and relapsing polychondritis. The pinna is a sun‐exposed site where squamous carcinoma is often more aggressive than when it arises at sites nearby.