Aural Polyps

Aural Polyps

Article
Ear, Nose, & Throat (ENT)
Diseases & Conditions
+1
Contributed byMaulik P. Purohit MD MPHApr 26, 2018

What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

  • Ear Polyps
  • Otic Polyps

What is Aural Polyps? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Aural Polyps can be described as mostly benign, fleshy growths located in the external canal of the ear. The condition can develop in any individual regardless of age or gender
  • Individuals prone to chronic infections and inflammation of the ear have a greater risk than others. The cause of Aural Polyps varies widely and includes infection and skin irritation
  • The signs and symptoms of the condition may include bloody discharge from the ear and earaches. A healthcare provider can diagnose Aural Polyps usually by a physical examination of the ear
  • Treatments vary depending on the underlying cause of the growth. If complications are avoided, the prognosis for Aural Polyps is generally good

Who gets Aural Polyps? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Aural Polyps can occur in individuals of any age; both children and adults are affected
  • Both male and female genders are also affected and no specific preference for either sex is seen
  • All races and ethnicities are at risk for the condition
  • Some study reports indicate that Aural Polyps are more common in the developing countries (for some unknown reason). However, they are known to occur worldwide

What are the Risk Factors for Aural Polyps? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Aural Polyps may include:

  • Chronic ear infections
  • Chronic inflammatory diseases such as autoimmune disorders
  • Chronic ear irritation

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Aural Polyps? (Etiology)

Aural Polyps may arise from a wide range of causes including:

  • Ear infections (acute or chronic)
  • Inflammation of the ear (acute or chronic)
  • The presence of any foreign object irritating the skin in the ear
  • Cholesteatoma: It is a reactive condition of the middle ear, wherein there is a benign growth of squamous epithelium due to a variety of factors
  • The presence of benign or malignant tumors of the ear

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Aural Polyps?

The signs and symptoms of Aural Polyps may include:

  • Large amount of discharge from the ear
  • Bloody discharge from the ear
  • A feeling of fullness in the ear
  • Earache
  • Hearing loss

How is Aural Polyps Diagnosed?

Aural Polyps can be typically diagnosed through a physical examination of the ear by a healthcare provider, using an otoscope (a special device to visually examine the ear).

  • A complete medical history of the individual may be reviewed by the healthcare provider, as required
  • Further tests may be undertaken to explore and detect the underlying cause
  • Additional tests may include ear swabs to test for infection, or biopsy of the polyp to determine if it is malignant

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Aural Polyps?

The complications from Aural Polyps could include:

  • Cholesteatoma; expanding growth in the middle ear
  • Hearing loss
  • Malignancy (a rare complication)

How is Aural Polyps Treated?

The treatment of Aural Polyps is dictated by the underlying cause of growth in the ear. The treatment options may include:

  • Antibiotic ear drops
  • Steroid medications
  • Avoiding irritation of the skin in the ear (such as by avoiding water in the ear)
  • If non-invasive treatments are unsuccessful, then surgery to remove the growth may be necessary
  • Surgery is also often needed when cholesteatoma is the underlying cause of the polyp development

How can Aural Polyps be Prevented?

In some cases, Aural Polyps may not be prevented. However, certain preventative steps that may be considered include:

  • Reducing risk of infection or the source of skin irritation
  • If ear infections do develop, they should be treated promptly to minimize risk of polyp formation
  • Promptly and effectively treating autoimmune disorders that affect the ear

What is the Prognosis of Aural Polyps? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Aural Polyps depends on the underlying cause of the condition.

  • If cholesteatoma is the underlying cause of the condition, permanent damage may occur to the middle ear
  • If the underlying cause is chronic ear infection or ear inflammation, there is a risk of recurrence of Ear Polyps
  • If the underlying cause is resolved and the polyp recedes, then no long-term effects are expected

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Aural Polyps:

It is important to see a healthcare provider if an Aural Polyp is suspected, in order to rule out the possibility of a malignant tumor in the ear and prevent additional unwarranted complications.

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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH picture
Approved by

Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH

Assistant Medical Director, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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