Cholesteatoma Complications

A cholesteatoma is an infected cyst located in the middle ear. It can be caused by a birth defect or can result from recurring ear infections. Complications from cholesteatomas can be devastating, so having the condition treated promptly is imperative.

Hearing Loss

• Enzymes in cholesteatomas are known to break down bone. The middle ear is made of tiny bones that are critical to our ability to hear. As bone is broken down in and around the ear, hearing is severely affected. If not treated quickly, irreversible hearing loss in the affected ear can result.

Dizziness and Vertigo

• The ear is responsible for our sense of balance. When any of the components of the ear are adversely affected, the result can be feelings of dizziness and vertigo. As cholesteatomas become more invasive and destroy bone, the dizziness and vertigo increase.

Facial Paralysis

• As cholesteatomas erode bone over time, the protective covering over the facial nerve can be compromised. If this happens, facial paralysis may result.

Hydrocephalus

• Rarely, a cholesteatoma may spread into the veins carrying blood from the brain to the heart. If this happens, the veins become blocked, causing a backup of fluid in the brain. This condition is known as hydrocephalus, and can be life threatening. Hydrocephalus may cause mental disability, vision problems, nausea and death.

Meningitis

• If the cholesteatoma causes infected tissue to enter the bloodstream, meningitis may result. This is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This dangerous condition can cause fever, nausea, stiff neck, headache, photophobia and changes in mental status.

Brain Abscess

• If left untreated, meningitis may cause a brain abscess. This extremely dangerous condition is caused by infection of part of the brain. The immune system fights this infection by isolating the area. However, the brain swells to accommodate the space taken by the infection, causing significant neurological problems.