Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Middle Ear-A Common Tumor at an Uncommon Site

Indian J Surg Oncol. 2024 Jun;15(2):375-379. doi: 10.1007/s13193-024-01893-2. Epub 2024 Feb 8.

Abstract

Squamous cell carcinoma of the middle ear is a very rare tumor. Early detection is uncommon as the tumor usually manifests as persistent ear discharge and otalgia, often misdiagnosed as chronic suppurative otitis media. We present a rare case of squamous cell carcinoma of the middle ear which clinically presented as chronic suppurative otitis media. Therefore, clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for clinically refractive cases of otorrhea, otalgia, excess bleeding, and non-responsiveness to treatment. All polyps and granulation tissue in EAC and middle ear should be submitted for histopathological examination especially in cases refractory to treatment.

Keywords: Chronic suppurative otitis media; Discharge; Middle ear; Otalgia; Squamous cell carcinoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports