What do the symptoms of cancer near the ear mean? Cancer near the ear may have many different symptoms, which vary depending on the type and location of the tumor. These symptoms may include a bump or lump on the outer part of the ear, skin discoloration, or changes in moles. Sometimes, a healthcare provider will notice a cyst during a routine ear exam and refer you to an ENT or audiologist for further testing. If the audiologist or ENT suspects the tumor, a biopsy will be performed to obtain cells for further analysis.
During a diagnosis of cancer near the ear, a biopsy is required to rule out other causes of the tumour. Most cases of melanoma begin in the areas of solar keratosis. A biopsy will be necessary if the lesion is persistent and suspicious. A biopsy of the tumour will allow doctors to confirm the diagnosis. The most common types of cancer near the ear are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Some people have a greater risk for developing cancer near the ear compared to other locations on the body. Exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun on the outer ear, from artificial UV sources, and skin infections may also increase the risk. Skin cancers may also occur in the temporal bone. Exposure to UV light is associated with a higher risk in people with fair skin. In addition, ear cancer can spread from another part of the body.
Cancer near the ear may start in the outer part of the ear and move to the ear canal or the temporal bone. It is a relatively rare type of cancer, with an estimated 200 to 300 cases per year being diagnosed in the United States. Most cases of ear cancer start in the skin of the ear, where it begins as a white bump or scaly area. If not treated, the tumor may spread into the temporal bone, which is located behind the ear. If left untreated, skin cancers can even spread to the bones and cause the person to experience painful hearing loss.
Patients with cancer near the ear may undergo MRI scans and CT scans. A biopsy of the cancerous cells may also be necessary to diagnose ear cancer. Biopsies, however, are difficult to perform on the inner ear. In the event of ear cancer, the primary treatment for this type of cancer is surgery, although radiation therapy is sometimes used as well. Some cancers are very aggressive and require surgery and radiation therapy.
Symptoms of ear cancer vary from person to person and location. Some may have no symptoms at all, and many others may be missed entirely. In some cases, the ear cancer may be accompanied by swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Further, patients may also experience pain or blood in the ears. If a biopsy is needed, the doctor may recommend a course of treatment based on the location and type of cancer.
