A cholesteatoma is a medical condition characterized by the presence of a noncancerous skin growth composed of squamous epithelium cells. Typically found in the middle of the ear, behind the eardrum, this growth takes the form of a skin-lined cyst. The cyst contains a collection of both living and dead skin cells, as well as other debris.
Over time, the dead skin cells accumulate within the cyst, surrounding the living tissue. As the cholesteatoma continues to grow, it begins to damage the structures within the middle ear. If left untreated, this condition can lead to various complications, including hearing loss, vertigo, and even facial muscle paralysis.
Initial Signs of Cholesteatomas
When cholesteatomas first develop, the symptoms are typically mild. The initial signs often include hearing loss and ear pain, which are the most commonly experienced. It’s important to note that cholesteatomas only grow in one ear, so the symptoms are restricted to that particular ear and the corresponding side of the face. Additionally, there may be a slight increase in ear wax secretions or mild drainage. During the early stages, a medical professional conducting an examination of the ear might observe the presence of deposits of skin cells or clusters of blood vessels.
Mechanism of Cholesteatoma Damage
Cholesteatomas cause damage to the middle and inner ear by gradually eroding bone, cartilage, and tissue as the cyst expands. This process typically takes place over several years. The initial stage of damage occurs when the delicate ossicles in the middle ear are affected, resulting in hearing loss. As the cholesteatoma progresses and reaches the inner ear, vertigo becomes a common symptom. The cyst contains a mixture of dead and living skin cells, blood vessels, and other tissues, which attract bacteria or fungus, leading to a chronic infection. If left untreated, a cholesteatoma can pose a serious threat to one’s life if it grows into the cranium, causing an abscess in the brain tissue.