Causes and Treatments of Preauricular Sinus Tract
Congenital preauricular sinus tract is a common otolaryngological disease caused by improper fusion of the first and second branchial arches during embryonic development or incomplete closure of the first branchial cleft. The sinus tract is a blind tube that can have branches and is often located on the upper part of the antihelix. The lumen is covered with stratified squamous epithelium and contains scale-like particles. When infected, it produces smelly secretions and can form cysts or abscesses. Treatment includes no treatment for those without infection history, systemic use of antibiotics for acute infections, and incision and drainage for those with abscesses. For those with a history of infection, sinus tract resection can be performed after infection control. It is advisable to eat a light diet and avoid seafood, fish, and shrimp.
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