Should secretions from an ear fistula be squeezed out?
Feb 23, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Preauricular sinus refers to congenital preauricular fistula. In general, secretions from a congenital preauricular fistula should not be squeezed. A congenital preauricular fistula results from incomplete development of auricular tissues during embryonic development. The skin lining the fistula contains sweat and sebaceous glands that may produce thin, whitish secretions. When these secretions emerge, they should not be forcibly expressed, as this may lead to infection and subsequent abscess formation in the fistula.
Ear fistula usually refers to congenital preauricular fistula. In general, secretions from a congenital preauricular fistula should not be squeezed, as this may lead to infection.
Congenital preauricular fistula is typically caused by incomplete development of ear tissue during embryonic development and mainly manifests as a small hole near the ear. The skin tissue inside the fistula contains sweat and sebaceous glands that can produce thin, white secretions. When these secretions emerge, they should not be forcibly squeezed out by hand, as this could cause infection of the fistula and lead to pus formation.
When secretions appear at the opening of a congenital preauricular fistula, they can be gently wiped away with a clean tissue. If there is excessive secretion, medical treatment at a hospital is necessary, possibly involving surgical intervention, to prevent abscess formation.
