What causes a hole in the ear?
Dec 06, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
A hole in the ear may result from a shallow skin indentation in the ear canal, ear trauma, preauricular sinus, or other causes. The sinus opening most commonly occurs in the anterior part of the helix foot, though in rare cases it may be found in the triangular fossa or concha of the auricle. If pus develops, incision and drainage of the abscess are required. Besides these reasons, the hole could also be an earring piercing from wearing jewelry; proper disinfection is necessary to prevent infection.
A hole on the ear may result from conditions such as a shallow skin depression in the ear canal, ear trauma, preauricular sinus, or other causes.
1. Shallow Skin Depression in the Ear Canal
This is mainly due to incomplete fusion during embryonic development, leaving behind a fusion remnant. It does not harm the body, and maintaining local cleanliness is sufficient.
2. Ear Trauma
If the ear has previously been pierced by a sharp object, a depressed scar may form on the local skin, leaving a small hole on the ear. If there are no other discomforts, special treatment is usually unnecessary.
3. Preauricular Sinus
This is a relatively common congenital defect. Besides local itching, patients may also have small amounts of white discharge accompanied by a mild odor. The sinus opening commonly occurs in the anterior part of the helix, although in rare cases it may be found in the triangular fossa or concha of the auricle. If abscess formation occurs, incision and drainage of the abscess are required.
Besides the above reasons, the hole might also be an earring piercing from wearing jewelry; proper disinfection is necessary to prevent infection.
