What Is Perichondritis?

Perichondritis is a bacterial infection of the perichondrium, the membrane that covers and protects the cartilage of the ear. The most commonly affected area is the auricle, or external ear, but the infection can also spread to the middle ear and inner ear.

Causes

Perichondritis is usually caused by bacteria that enter the perichondrium through a break in the skin, such as a cut, abrasion, or insect bite. The most common bacteria that cause perichondritis are:

- Staphylococcus aureus

- Pseudomonas aeruginosa

- Streptococcus pneumoniae

Risk factors

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing perichondritis, including:

- Having a weakened immune system

- Having diabetes

- Having a history of ear injuries or surgery

- Participating in contact sports

- Being exposed to contaminated water, such as in swimming pools or hot tubs

Symptoms

The symptoms of perichondritis can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Some common symptoms include:

- Ear pain

- Swelling and redness of the ear

- Drainage from the ear

- Tenderness to the touch

- Fever

- Chills

- Headache

- Fatigue

Treatment

Perichondritis is a serious infection that requires prompt treatment. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria and pain relievers to reduce symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to drain the infected area or to remove damaged tissue.

Complications

If left untreated, perichondritis can lead to serious complications, including:

- Hearing loss

- Facial paralysis

- Scarring

- Deformity of the ear

- Spread of infection to the brain or other parts of the body

Prevention

The best way to prevent perichondritis is to avoid activities that could damage the skin of your ears. If you do have a cut or abrasion on your ear, keep it clean and dry and apply an antibiotic ointment. If you have any symptoms of perichondritis, see your doctor immediately.