Treatment options for cancer near the ear depend on the type of cancer, stage, and location of the tumor. Treatment for basal cell cancers is mainly surgery and radiation. If the cancer has spread, plastic surgery may be necessary to reconstruct the ear. Treatment for squamous cell cancers depends on the location of the tumor and its extent.
During the diagnostic process, a doctor will examine the ear and perform a physical exam. He will also examine your health history, including any history of skin or general cancer. The doctor will take a small tissue sample to confirm the diagnosis. For a more accurate diagnosis, a biopsy is often performed. Several other treatments are available. The diagnosis of cancer near the ear may also be made based on the patient’s health history.
Some of the types of cancer near the ear include basal skin carcinoma, which is more common in people with fair skin. The cancer begins in a scaly area on the ear, and can spread to the bone, causing pain and discomfort. A patient may also experience drainage or an ooze from the canal. A doctor should also examine the temporal bone and other surrounding areas if there is a persistent infection in the ear.
Two types of cancer near the ear are atypical. Basal cell carcinoma, which is the most common type, affects the outermost layer of the skin. It is less aggressive than melanoma and has a 15% chance of spreading. Patients with this type of cancer may have a higher risk of getting it after receiving immunosuppressive treatment. So, it is important to seek a second opinion if you suspect you have ear cancer.
Symptoms of cancer near the ear vary depending on the type and location of the cancer. The symptoms of ear cancer may be vague or nonexistent. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. For instance, if you have a persistent ear infection, you may have ear cancer. If you suspect that you have this type of cancer, your healthcare provider will examine the inside and outer ear with an otoscope. If cancer cells are present, a biopsy will be done to determine whether it is benign or malignant.
Acoustic neuromas usually occur unilaterally, but they can also affect both ears. They can cause hearing loss in one or both ears, or even total hearing loss if left untreated. Detecting this type of cancer early can help you avoid the risk of it spreading throughout the body. It is important to get diagnosed early if you suspect that you might have acoustic neuromas. By preventing tumor growth, the best chances of successful treatment are available.
Other symptoms of cancer near the ear include swelling of nearby lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are tiny bean-shaped structures located near the neck. These glands help circulate lymph, which contains infection-fighting white blood cells. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck may be the first sign of the disease. In addition to affecting the lymph nodes, the cancer may press on the Eustachian tubes, the tube connecting the middle ear to the nasopharynx. If the cancer is large enough to press on the Eustachian tubes, it can lead to hearing loss, pain, and even a sense of loss of hearing.
