What causes ceruminous adenoma?
During a physical examination, I was found to have a ceruminous gland tumor. I have never injured my ears before. I would like to ask, how exactly does one get this condition? Is it serious?
Doctor's answer (1)
Ceruminous adenoma is a rare benign tumor of the external auditory canal, primarily formed by abnormal proliferation of epithelial and myoepithelial cells of the ceruminous glands. The exact cause is not yet fully understood, but it may be related to genetic factors, chronic irritation, unhealthy habits, endocrine disorders, and immune factors.
Some patients with ceruminous adenoma have a family history, suggesting that genetic predisposition may play a role in the development of the disease. Long-term chronic inflammation of the external auditory canal and chronic otitis media may stimulate ceruminous gland proliferation, leading to adenoma formation. Frequently cleaning the ears, unhealthy dietary and lifestyle habits, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and staying up late, may also increase the risk of developing the condition.
The development of ceruminous adenoma may be associated with changes in hormonal levels in the body. Particularly, the higher incidence observed in female patients during pregnancy suggests that estrogen may promote tumor growth. Abnormalities in the immune system may also be involved in the pathogenesis of ceruminous adenoma, although the exact mechanism requires further investigation.
For patients, timely medical consultation is essential once an abnormal mass is detected in the ear canal.
