SURFER'S EAR (EXOSTOSIS)

Definition

Exostosis or "Surfer's Ear" is a condition of small, hard, pearl-like, non-cancerous growths that form around the ear drum on the tympanic bone. These lesions have been attributed to cold-water exposure. They may grow large enough to block the ear canal, trap wax in the canal, and interfere with hearing.

Treatment

If the growths increase progressively in size, they can be painful or interfere with hearing. Surgical removal is often necessary. Otherwise, if they are not painful and do not interfere with hearing, treatment is unnecessary. Silicone earplugs that block out water are a common method of limiting further exposure to cold water.

References

1. Practical Otology, Daniel J. Pender, J. B. Lippincott Company, copyright 1992Copyright 2000
2. www.adam.com Updated by: Ashutosh Kacker, M.D., Department of Otolaryngology, Columbia-Presbyterian