Question

What are the symptoms of congenital preauricular sinus tract?

Answer

The sinus tract opening is located in front of the ear lobe, with the other end being a blind tube, which can vary in depth and length and may also be branched. The tract is usually unilateral, but it can also be bilateral. The lumen wall is composed of stratified squamous epithelium, containing hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands. Therefore, when compressed, a small amount of white, sticky or cheesy-like secretion may ooze from the opening. Generally, there are no symptoms, but secondary infection can cause regional redness, swelling, and pain. Repeated infections that rupture can lead to scarring.

  1. No symptoms, or a small amount of mucus or sebaceous-like material may be expressed.
  2. During infection, there is regional swelling and pain, with purulent discharge; repeated infections can lead to abscesses or scars.