What causes a sudden dent in the outer ear cartilage?

Question

Hello doctor,

A strange notch appeared in both the outer ears today. The notch seems to be firm, and it is not caused by mask use. It does not appear to be subsiding. I am experiencing high pressure in my ears. My doctor said that I might have immune system issues. But, tests have not been conducted and would not specify the potential diagnosis.

I have a medical history of frequent migraines with dizziness, pressure in my ears, and vertigo.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for the query. I can understand your concern. According to your statement, you have been suffering from a dent in the middle of the outer cartilage.

According to the pictures provided here, you may suffer from perichondritis, which is the infection of the tissue covering the cartilage of the external part of the ear, known as the pinna or auricle (attachments removed to protect the patient’s identity).

Perichondritis may result from injury, insect bite, boil or furuncle, ear surgery, ear piercing, immunocompromised patients, inflammatory disorders like granulomatosis with polyangiitis, diabetes mellitus, etc.

Clinical features of perichondritis are pain, redness, swelling of the pinna or auricle. Accumulation of pus can develop between the cartridge and layer of connective tissue. Fever may present too.

I suggest you take antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin along with painkillers like ibuprofen, Naproxen, or Aceclofenac with or without Steroids. Applying hot compresses on the swollen area may help to draw back the pus outside.

In some cases, incision and drainage may be required under antibiotics coverage.

Take care.