Causes and risk factors
Perichondritis is commonly caused by infection with Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This infection can be precipitated by a number of factors that can cause trauma to the ear cartilage. These include playing outdoor sports, getting your ears pierced, ear surgery, etc.
Individuals with lowered immunity due to diabetes or chronic corticosteroid intake are at a higher risk of developing perichondritis.
Clinical presentation
The affected ear becomes red and swollen. The patient experiences pain in the ear. He may develop high fever. There may be discharge from the wounded area. The affected ear is tender.
Investigations
Perichondritis is diagnosed on the basis of the patient’s history and physical examination of the ear.
Treatment
Antibiotic treatment is administered to the patient. If there is collection of pus, then surgery may be necessary to drain it. Debridement is essential to remove any dead tissue. If the ear becomes deformed as a result of severe damage, plastic surgery may be necessary for its reconstruction.
Complications
If timely treatment is not offered, perichondritis may lead to the formation of ‘ear abscesses.’ In severe infections, the ear tissue may become damaged causing a deformity called ‘cauliflower ear.’ In such cases, reconstruction of the ear becomes necessary via plastic surgery.
When to contact a doctor
Contact a doctor as soon as you experience pain or redness in the ear.
Systems involved
Otology
Organs involved
Ear
