Question
I have a sinus tract above my right ear, and I had an infection two years ago, which has recently recurred, causing great pain. I am asking about the risks of congenital preauricular sinuses.
Answer
Congenital preauricular sinuses are a common otolaryngological condition caused by developmental abnormalities during the formation of the ear during embryogenesis. They are blind tubes that may have multiple branches and bends, with an external opening typically located above the antihelix. The lumen is lined with stratified squamous epithelium and occasionally may extrude a small amount of thick material by compressing the sinus orifice. Infection can lead to redness, swelling, heat, pain, and purulent discharge, possibly recurring. This condition is an incomplete dominant genetic disease with an autosomal dominant pattern. For patients without symptoms, treatment is usually not necessary. However, when the preauricular sinus becomes infected, anti-infection treatment is required, and if abscesses form, incision and drainage are needed. Consideration for surgical removal of the sinus should be given after healing.