Cancer near the ear can be benign or malignant, depending on the type. Benign tumors may grow to a certain size and be harmless. Malignant tumors may bleed, ulcerate, or become infected. These tumors can lead to recurrent or chronic ear infections. If left untreated, malignant tumors can spread to other parts of the body. They can also narrow the ear canal and obstruct it.
The diagnosis of cancer near the ear is difficult, but the good news is that early detection can mean successful treatment. Most tumours are treated with an excisional biopsy, which means that a margin of normal tissue is preserved. Some tumours, however, are too aggressive to be removed using this method, and the surgeon will remove them using a broader margin. MRI is more sensitive than CT for detecting acoustic neuromas, so it is usually preferred if there are suspicious symptoms.
The symptoms of ear cancer depend on the type and location of the tumor. Some people experience a swollen lymph node in the neck. Some people may also experience hearing loss or facial weakness. These symptoms are more common in men and women than in people with cancer in other parts of their body. Patients with these symptoms should see a healthcare provider for a consultation. Your doctor will take a tissue sample to determine the type of cancer.
Skin cancers may start on the surface of the ear, or they may begin inside the canal. Basal cell carcinoma (BSC), which causes the white bumps on the outer side of the ear, can spread to other parts of the body, including bones and lymph nodes. These cancers can also spread to the underlying temporal bone. It is important to get a diagnosis of cancer near the ear, especially if there is a history of this type of cancer in the family.
Treatment of ear and temporal bone cancer depends on the size and location of the tumor. Small tumors located on the outer surface of the ear can be removed in the doctor’s office or surgically, and the tumor may be reconstructed if it is found in the middle part. Other forms of ear cancer, such as Squamous cell cancer of the temporal bone, generally affect older adults. This cancer usually develops in people over 70.
Non-cancerous tumors of the inner ear are called vestibular schwannomas. These tumors can affect balance and hearing. When pressed upon these nerves, they can cause difficulty swallowing and unsteadiness. While most acoustic neuromas are not cancerous, they can cause problems with the nerve that controls hearing and balance. Cancer near the ear can even affect the vocal cords.
Treatment for cancer near the ear depends on the type and stage of the cancer. Radiosurgery or surgery may be necessary. If it spreads, chemotherapy may also be needed. Surgical sleep may be an option for ear cancer. Patients must discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider and undergo a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis. A surgeon may also recommend radiation therapy or chemotherapy to combat the disease. However, it is unlikely that cancer of the ear will lead to permanent hearing loss.
