Isolated myxoma of the external auditory canal

Abstract

The majority of neoplasms within the external auditory canal are benign. Management of these primary tumors and their local recurrences are discussed herein. We present a case of an isolated myxoma of the external auditory canal with a review of the common histopathological and radiographic features. Although rare, this highlights the possibility of encountering benign tumor types that carry associated morbidity or mortality due to manifestations outside of the head and neck.

Isolated Myxoma in the External Auditory Canal of a 10-Year-Old Girl

“…For diagnosis, imaging studies, such as CT and MRI, are helpful to differentiate myxoma from other diseases, to evaluate extensive bony erosion or very rare intracranial extension, and to prepare a surgical plan, etc. In imaging studies, myxoma reveals hypo-to isodense with variable enhancement; however, these findings are not pathognomonic because of non-specificity [8] . Definite diagnosis of myxoma depends on the findings of the histopathological examination.…”

“…In the English literature, a few cases of myxoma in the external auditory canal have been reported through a PUBMED search [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8] . In addition, there has been no report regarding myxoma of the external auditory canal in the Korean literature.…”

“…Most of it can be completely removed [1,7,8] . Moreover, our case was located at the posterior surface of the tragus, did not infiltrate the tragal cartilage, and was completely removed.…”

“…It is diagnosed on the basis of the clinical diagnostic criteria and may require genetic testing for examining the PRKAR1A gene, the most common mutation [8] . Some cases of myxoma in Carney complex may be located in the cartilaginous wall of the external auditory canal, which is a component of Carney complex.…”

“…The WHO histological classification of tumors of the ear does not include this disease entity; however, some English literatures have reported regarding the cases of myxoma involving the ear [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8] . Isolated myxoma rarely involved the external auditory canal and could not be grossly distinguished from other benign neoplasms or cutaneous cysts, such as epidermoid cysts.…”