Summary about Disease
Cauliflower ear, also known as perichondrial hematoma, is a deformity of the outer ear caused by blunt trauma. Repeated blows or friction to the ear can cause blood to collect between the cartilage and the perichondrium (the layer of connective tissue that supplies nutrients to the cartilage). This disrupts the blood supply to the cartilage, eventually causing it to die and new fibrous tissue to form. This results in a thickened, deformed appearance resembling a cauliflower.
Symptoms
Ear pain
Swelling of the ear
Bruising of the ear
Deformity of the ear shape (lumpy, thickened appearance)
Blocked or reduced hearing (rare)
Causes
Blunt trauma to the ear (common in contact sports like boxing, wrestling, and mixed martial arts)
Repeated friction to the ear (can occur in rugby or grappling sports)
Ear piercings (rare, if infection occurs)
Medicine Used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
Antibiotics: May be prescribed if there's a risk of infection.
Topical antiseptic: To prevent infection after draining.
Is Communicable
No, cauliflower ear is not communicable. It is caused by physical trauma and not by an infectious agent.
Precautions
Wear protective headgear: Use helmets or ear guards during contact sports.
Seek immediate medical attention: If you experience trauma to the ear, especially with swelling or bruising.
Proper drainage: If a hematoma forms, have it drained by a medical professional promptly.
Compression dressing: Apply a compression dressing after drainage to prevent re-accumulation of fluid.
How long does an outbreak last?
Cauliflower ear doesn't have an "outbreak." The hematoma formation is an acute event. If left untreated or if drainage is delayed, the deformity becomes permanent. Early intervention (drainage) can prevent the deformity.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical examination: A doctor can usually diagnose cauliflower ear by visually examining the ear and assessing the history of trauma.
Aspiration: Draining fluid can help confirm the presence of hematoma.
Imaging (rare): In some cases, imaging studies (like X-rays) may be used to rule out other injuries.
Timeline of Symptoms
Immediately after trauma: Pain, swelling, and bruising appear.
Within hours: A hematoma (collection of blood) forms under the skin of the ear.
Days to weeks (if untreated): Cartilage starts to die, and fibrous tissue forms, leading to permanent deformity. Early drainage within 24-72 hours offers the best outcome.
Important Considerations
Early treatment is crucial: Prompt drainage of the hematoma is essential to prevent permanent deformity.
Compliance with compression: Maintaining compression after drainage is important to prevent the fluid from reaccumulating.
Risk of reoccurrence: Even with proper treatment, cauliflower ear can reoccur if the ear is subjected to repeated trauma.
Cosmetic surgery: Once the cartilage hardens and the deformity is permanent, cosmetic surgery may be an option to improve the appearance of the ear, but it will not restore the ear to its original shape.