Pleomorphic Adenoma of the External Auditory Canal From Ceruminous Gland Adenoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

We describe a right external auditory canal (EAC) recurrent ceruminous pleomorphic adenoma (CPA) accompanied by itching and review the clinical features and histopathology of this disease. A female in her 70s presented with a right EAC mass accompanied by itching. We initially diagnosed the mass as a ceruminous gland adenoma (CGA) following excisional biopsy. Two years and nine months later, the tumor recurred at the same site. A preoperative computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated no bone destruction, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a 1 × 1 cm mass with a clearly defined margin in the right EAC. We completely excised the recurrent tumor using a transmeatal approach under general anesthesia. Histopathology demonstrated haphazard proliferation of tubule-glandular structures lined by two layers of the epithelium in the hypocellular stroma composed of a mucoid matrix. The recurring tumor was diagnosed as a CPA. Here, an EAC tumor—originally diagnosed as a CGA following excisional biopsy—recurred and was subsequently diagnosed as a CPA. CPA can be considered an unusual variant of CGA.

Ceruminous adenoma of the external auditory canal: 9 cases series with imaging and pathologic findings

“…A free skin flap is usually recommended for reconstruction. The possibility of recurrence for these benign tumors seems to be related only to an incomplete surgical excision of the lesion (17). Although the recurrence rate is low, long-term follow-up is needed.…”