What's the issue with a thin membrane on the ear?
Dec 06, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
A thin membrane on the ear may result from excessive earwax in the ear canal, or could be caused by factors such as external otitis or middle ear cholesteatoma. Besides these causes, a thin membrane on the ear might also be due to Eustachian tube obstruction. Patients should promptly visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment under medical guidance. Additionally, maintaining ear hygiene is important.
A thin film on the ear may result from excessive cerumen in the ear canal, or it could be caused by factors such as external otitis or middle ear cholesteatoma.
1. Excessive Cerumen in the Ear Canal
When there is an overaccumulation of cerumen in the ear canal, it can form a blockage along the ear wall, covering the surface of the eardrum and creating the appearance of a thin film on the ear. Patients should visit a reputable medical facility where trained professionals can safely remove the cerumen using specialized instruments.
2. External Otitis
In this condition, the ear is infected by fungi, leading to inflammation. Under inflammatory stimulation, the skin of the external auditory canal and the eardrum undergoes excessive proliferation and keratinization, resulting in the symptom of a thin film forming on the ear. Treatment may include medications such as ichthammol ointment, metronidazole cream, or hydrocortisone cream, used under a doctor's guidance.
3. Auricular Eczema
Auricular eczema is an allergic condition. During flare-ups, it causes redness, swelling, and itching of the skin on the ear. Since the skin in this area is delicate, scratching can lead to skin damage. The secretions from broken skin may crust over, forming a thin membrane, thus creating the appearance of a thin film on the ear. Treatments may include topical applications such as desonide cream, mometasone furoate cream, or triamcinolone acetonide-urea cream, as recommended by a physician.
Besides the above causes, a thin film on the ear could also result from eustachian tube obstruction. Patients should seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under medical supervision. Additionally, maintaining good ear hygiene and preventing foreign substances from entering the ear canal is important.
