The outer and inner parts of the ear are vulnerable to the development of cancer. The outer part of the ear is most often affected by ear cancer, which can spread to the eardrum, ear canal, and temporal bone, the bony lump behind the lobe. In the United States, around 300 people are diagnosed with cancer near the ear each year. The number of new cases of cancer in the breast is estimated at about 250,000 in 2018, but that number is likely to rise.
Diagnosis of cancer near the ear is not easy and often requires imaging tests to determine the exact location of the tumor. In some cases, cancer of the inner ear is suspected but cannot be diagnosed with a biopsy. Depending on the stage of the cancer, surgery is the primary treatment option for cancer near the ear. Radiation therapy, surgery, or chemotherapy may also be recommended. If the cancer has spread, chemotherapy may be recommended.
When the tumor presses on the facial nerve, it can result in facial twitching or weakness. It may also press on the facial nerve and affect swallowing. The hypoglossal nerve is responsible for moving the tongue and vocal cords. When the tumor presses on these nerves, it can affect swallowing. A cancer near the ear not visible to the naked eye can cause swallowing difficulties. It is important to consult a physician to determine the cause of the tumor, as it may be the cause of swallowing difficulties.
Some forms of ear cancer are skin cancers. The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, can develop on the pinna and other parts of the body. While it usually affects white people, it can develop in anyone. This type of cancer is difficult to treat and can cause complete loss of hearing. If left untreated, it can be life threatening.
A tumor in the nasopharynx may spread to the lymph nodes nearby, which are small bean-like structures located near the ear. These nodes carry lymph, which contains white blood cells that fight infections. Swollen lymph nodes may be the first sign of cancer near the ear not visible to the naked eye. When a tumor presses on the Eustachian tubes, which connect the nasopharynx to the middle ear, the cancer may cause pain and fluid in the area, and hearing loss.
