Introduction:
Preauricular pits and the sinus are rare anatomical variations resulting in small holes or pits located just above your ears. These conditions are generally non-threatening. Consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Learn more about preauricular pits and sinuses, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options here.
What Is a Preauricular Pit?
A preauricular pit is an indentation on the skin of the front of your ear. It is also known as a preauricular dimple or a skin pit. Pits are fairly common, especially in children, and often have no cause for concern. While they can occur anywhere on the body, they are most often found in front of the ears. Pits are a normal part of the body and are caused by a small amount of trapped fluid under the skin. Several factors, including genetics and aging, may cause the fluid. Pits can occur on both ears but are more common on the left side.
What Is the Preauricular Sinus?
A preauricular sinus is an opening in the skin in front of the ear. These small openings are often mistaken for preauricular pits but can signify a more serious issue. Preauricular sinuses are a common sign of perforated ear drums and can also be a sign of an underlying infection. A preauricular sinus can be drained if it is painful or infected. Preauricular sinuses are often due to chronic middle ear infections in childhood. These infections can cause small, open wounds in the ear canal, which, over time, heal as abnormal holes.
How Are Preauricular Pits and Sinuses Formed?
A few individuals are born with preauricular pits and the sinus. These occur when earlobes fail to form or are very small in size. The reason behind this is genetic. In some cases, earlobes are formed but then get trapped in the skin as the child grows. This can also result in preauricular pits and the sinus. Pits and sinuses can also be formed if there is an infection or injury near the ears.
What Are the Symptoms of Preauricular Pits and Sinus?
Pain - If the preauricular pit becomes infected, it may cause pain or discomfort.
Discharge - Infection could also cause a discharge from the pit.
Swelling - Swelling or inflammation near the pit may indicate an infection or cyst formation.
Skin Discoloration - Darkened or discolored skin around the pit could indicate a bacterial infection or cyst formation.
Skin Irritation - A scratch or infection on or near the pit could result in skin irritation.
Skin Rupture - A ruptured cyst on or near the pit may lead to a discharge of pus.
What Is the Treatment for Preauricular Pits and Sinuses?
Treatment for preauricular pits and sinus depends on the underlying cause. You may be advised to apply an antibacterial ointment or saline solution to the affected area or to take antibiotics. If an infection is present, cutting the diameter of the skin is a common way to treat preauricular pits and the sinus. It can be done under local anesthesia. If you have impacted earwax or a hole, you may need to visit an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor to have it removed.
What Are Other Conditions Associated With Preauricular Pits and Sinuses?
These are a few conditions that can be associated with preauricular pits.
Ear Lobe Holes- If a preauricular pit does not heal, it can become an ear lobe hole. This is a small, open wound that often heals improperly. If left untreated, it can require removal.
Impacted Ear Wax - If a preauricular pit is large and deep, it can trap earwax and lead to infection. The infection can travel down the ear canal and even spread to the brain.
Cysts - Pits can also form fluid-filled sacs under the skin. Cysts are often symptomatic and go away on their own.
What Is the Diagnosis of Preauricular Pits and Sinuses?
If you have a preauricular pit or sinus, your doctor may suggest an imaging test to rule out other potential causes. Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, X-rays, and ultrasound scans can help your doctor determine if you have a cyst or other abnormal growth beneath the skin. Your doctor may also take a sample of the tissue in the area to rule out infection or other inflammatory conditions.
What Are the Complications of Preauricular Pits and the Sinus?
As long as a benign condition causes your preauricular pits, they do not pose much of a threat. If your preauricular pits are caused by a more serious condition, such as a cyst or an infection, they can lead to complications, including:
Infection: Infected pits can be painful and lead to cellulitis, a bacterial infection that travels through your bloodstream. Cellulitis requires immediate medical attention.
Cysts: Cysts are harmless but can be painful. You may need to see a doctor to drain the fluid or surgically remove the cyst.
Ear Problems: Cysts and ear infections can damage your eardrums and cause hearing loss.
Respiratory Infections: Cysts and infected pits can travel to other parts of your body, including your brain. If a cyst or infection reaches your brain, it can cause meningitis, an infection of the membranes surrounding your brain and spinal cord.
Conclusion:
Preauricular pits and sinuses are generally harmless and do not require treatment. They are often caused by aging, genetics, or a slight deformity in the underlying cartilage band in tissue. If you have a preauricular pit, your doctor may suggest an imaging test to rule out other potential causes. If you have a preauricular pit or sinus, keep an eye on it to ensure it does not become infected or cause complications.
