Answer:

The human ear consists of the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. The auricle, part of the outer ear, is formed by cartilage, overlying skin, ligaments, and muscles. The auricle has a flexible, elastic structure, designed to collect external sounds. Auricle chondritis occurs when the tissues surrounding and nourishing the auricle become infected.

Common symptoms include inflammation, itching, and a burning sensation in the auricle. In more severe cases, patients may experience a hot sensation, redness, swelling, pus discharge, and fever. Auricle chondritis can stem from several causes: ear piercings performed without proper sterilization, allergic reactions to earring materials, everyday trauma, poor ear hygiene, or insect bites.

In some instances, a middle ear infection with pus discharge can allow bacteria to spread to the outer ear and auricle, causing infection. Additionally, conditions like dermatitis, otitis externa, or inflammation of the perichondrium (the membrane surrounding the ear cartilage) can lead to auricle chondritis. Extreme cold, prolonged heat, or environmental factors may also cause redness, soreness, and pain in the auricle, increasing the risk of inflammation.

Doctor Xuan Nguyen performing an ear endoscopy for a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Clinic District 7

Treatment depends on the severity of the inflammation. If the auricle is only swollen, red, painful, and without pus formation, doctors typically prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. If pus accumulates or an abscess forms, the patient requires aspiration or incision and drainage to clear the infection, combined with medication.

While auricle chondritis is not usually severe, improper or delayed treatment can lead to the inflammation progressing and spreading, potentially deforming the auricle. In such cases, the damaged cartilage contracts and undergoes fibrosis, causing the auricle to lose its natural shape. Prolonged infection may also increase the risk of middle ear infections, hearing loss, and cosmetic issues.

You should not worry, as not all cases of auricle chondritis result in ear deformity. With early detection and appropriate treatment, most patients recover well, experience reduced inflammation, and maintain the auricle's structure.

For prevention, ensure ear piercings are done at sterile, safe facilities. If the pierced area shows signs of redness, pain, itching, or swelling, remove the earring, clean, and disinfect the area properly, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Avoid touching your ears with dirty hands; keep your ears clean and dry. Limit prolonged headphone use and clean headphones regularly. When engaging in outdoor activities, protect your ears from trauma or insect bites.

If your auricle shows signs of itching, swelling, redness, or pain, you should consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

Doctor of First Degree Specialization Tran Xuan Nguyen

Ear, Nose, and Throat Department

Tam Anh General Clinic District 7