Question
Does congenital preauricular fistula affect hearing? Does congenital preauricular fistula interfere with hearing? Should congenital preauricular fistula be operated on? What harm can arise if left untreated after inflammation? Are there treatments other than surgery?
Answer
Some people have a small hole in front of their ear, known medically as a preauricular fistula. It is a common congenital malformation, also referred to as congenital preauricular fistula. It is closely related to maternal developmental abnormalities during the embryonic period. It can occur on one or both sides. About 90% of fistula holes are located in front of the earlobe. Most fistulas have branches. The wall of the fistula is a layer of squamous epithelium. The lumen of the fistula contains desquamated epithelium and keratin, which can excrete foul-smelling, purulent-like secretions.