Cholesteatoma

The Cholesteatoma - A rare but serious condition in which skin cells proliferate andgrow inwards from the ear canal into the middle ear.

Cholesteatoma usually occurs as a result of long-standing otitis media together with a defect in the eardrum (see eardrum, perforated). Left untreated, it may damage the small bones in the middle ear and other structures.

Cholesteatoma needs to be removed surgically through the eardrum or by mastoidectomy.