GGC - Primary Care
Malignancy
Background: The commonest malignancies involving the pinna are Basal Cell Cancers and Squamous Cell Cancers due to their frequent exposure to UV light.
Ear canal malignancies are rare but should be suspected in patients with persistent unilateral symptoms and abnormal ear canal on examination that does not improve with conservative treatment (advice on ear care and topical steroid and antibiotic drops).
Referral guidance:
Suspected malignancies of the ear should be referred to ENT as Urgent Suspicion of Cancer. Please include a photograph of the lesion with the referral.
Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis
Background: Patients present with localised painful areas of inflammation on pinna. This is thought to be due to pressure and results in inflammation of underlying cartilage with breakdown of overlying skin. It is often on the side that the patient sleeps on. It is a benign condition, but the differential includes skin malignancy.
How to manage: Topical steroid cream / ointment can be helpful but surgery may be required to excise the affected areas.
Referral guidance:
If persists despite topical therapy referred to ENT as Urgent Suspicion of Cancer. Please include a photograph of the lesion with the referral.