Aural polyps

Definition

An aural polyp is a growth in the outside (external) ear canal or middle ear. It may be attached to the eardrum (tympanic membrane), or it may grow from the middle ear space.

Alternative Names

Otic polyp

Causes

Aural polyps may be caused by:

  • Cholesteatoma
  • Foreign object in the ear
  • Inflammation of the ear canal or middle ear
  • Tumor of the ear canal or middle ear

Symptoms

Bloody drainage from the ear is the most common symptom. Hearing loss can also occur.

Exams and Tests

An aural polyp is diagnosed through an exam of the ear canal and middle ear using an otoscope or microscope.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Your health care provider may first recommend:

  • Avoiding water in the ear
  • Steroid medicines
  • Antibiotic ear drops

If a cholesteatoma is the underlying problem or the condition fails to clear, then surgery may be needed.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if you have severe pain, bleeding from an ear or a sharp decrease in hearing.

References

Chi DH, Tobey A. Otolaryngology. In: Zitelli, BJ, McIntire SC, Nowalk AJ, Garrison J, eds. Zitelli and Davis' Atlas of Pediatric Physical Diagnosis. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 24.

Chole RA, Sharon JD. Chronic otitis media, mastoiditis, and petrositis. In: Flint PW, Francis HW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 140.

McHugh JB. Ear. In: Goldblum JR, Lamps LW, McKenney JK, Myers JL, eds. Rosai and Ackerman's Surgical Pathology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 7.

Review Date: 5/2/2024
Reviewed By: Josef Shargorodsky, MD, MPH, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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