In the ear and especially in the nasal cavity, the so-called false cholesteatoma occurs - a very rare phenomenon. This term refers to the growth of epidermal tissue of the mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses or middle ear from one of the openings of the nose - the choana or tympanic orifice (a.meatus acusticus externus).
This developmental anomaly is a congenital defect and is caused by abnormal embryonic growth and proliferation of the epithelium and underlying stroma. Food passing through the nose injures the mucous membrane of the nasal turbinates, which leads to erosion, ulceration and defective tissue growth, thickened and dense in consistency, covered with a serous or fibrinous membrane; After some time, the acanthus tissue becomes epithelialized and becomes covered with the skin. Sometimes the process can have a supranormal course and lead to a benign tumor or a malignant process. More often the process affects the facial and nasal skeletons. Of great importance is the spread of the process beyond the bones of the base of the skull, diffuse damage to the mucous membrane of the lateral air cavities, the brain and meninges, accompanied by general symptoms of intoxication. Thus, most of the pseudocholeratoma is distributed
False cholesteatoma: sorting out myths and reality
False cholesteatoma, also known as pseudocholesteatoma or secondary cholesteatoma, is a medical condition that causes some symptoms and signs similar to cholesteatoma, a serious middle ear disorder. However, false cholesteatoma differs from true cholesteatoma in important ways, and understanding these differences is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
False cholesteatoma usually occurs due to inflammation, infection, or trauma in the middle ear. These conditions may result in a picture resembling true cholesteatoma. However, compared to cholesteatoma, false cholesteatoma is not a neoplasm consisting of epithelial cells that penetrates the internal structures of the ear. Instead, it is caused by impaired drainage or circulation within the ear, which leads to a buildup of keratinized skin cells in the ear cavity.
The main signs of false cholesteatoma are:
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Heavy Ear Discharge: Patients with false cholesteatoma often complain of a thick, smelly ear discharge, which can be confusing and associated with true cholesteatoma.
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Persistent or regular ear infections: Pseudocholesteatoma may be associated with recurrent middle ear infections, which may occur due to poor drainage.
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Hearing loss: Some patients may experience hearing loss due to pseudocholesteatoma, but this is usually not as severe as with true cholesteatoma.
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Discomfort and pain: Pain and discomfort in the ear area may be present, but they are usually less intense than with cholesteatoma.
To accurately diagnose false cholesteatoma, it is necessary to conduct an examination of the ear and special studies, such as audiometry and computed tomography of the middle ear. These methods will help exclude true cholesteatoma and confirm the diagnosis of false cholesteatoma.
Treatment for cholesteatoma usually involves controlling inflammation and infection and ensuring proper ear drainage. In some cases, surgery may be required to restore normal ear function and correct drainage problems.
In conclusion, pseudocholesteatoma is a condition that can mimic the symptoms and signs of true cholesteatoma but differs from it in important ways. Proper diagnosis and treatment play a key role in ensuring a patient's optimal ear health. If you are experiencing symptoms associated with cholesteatoma pseudocholesteatoma, it is recommended that you consult a qualified physician for a diagnosis and treatment plan that is best suited to your individual case.