Define Cholesterol Granuloma

Cholesterol granulomas usually affect areas in or around the middle ear and have the potential to cause hearing loss, twitching on the face, vertigo or tinnitus.

Identification

• Cholesterol granulomas are collections of inflammatory cells containing cholesterol, a steroid and molecule that--at proper levels--is a benefit and essential part of bodily function. Left untreated, the granulomas gradually form lesions that can cause dysfunction in the ear.

Composition

• The cells that form cholesterol granulomas also contain blood vessels, red blood cells, hemosiderin and fibrous tissue.

Treatment

• Treatment options for cholesterol granuloma include surgical ablation or a drainage fistulization procedure.

Middle Ear

• Middle ear cholesterol granulomas are most common and are often discovered when a patient seeks medical assistance for other ear problems.

Petrous Apex

• Cholesterol granulomas of the petrous apex, which holds the organs of the inner ear, are less common and are found near the temporal bone that sits at the base of the skull. These granulomas, because they remain undetected for longer periods of time, typically cause more damage than those of the middle ear.