Therapeutic Options of Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis

Abstract

Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis is a benign inflammatory process affecting the skin and cartilage of the ear. It typically presents as a painful nodule surrounded by an area of erythema and often prevents the patient from sleeping on the affected side. Many treatments have been described in the literature, but the condition is prone to recurrence. A literature search was performed in order to identify the best possible treatment. Fifty-eight articles were included, describing and investigating nonsurgical as well as surgical treatment modalities. Large prospective, controlled, and randomised long-term studies are lacking, but based on the available literature, we recommend starting with a conservative approach using decompression devices. Simple surgical procedures should only be used if conservative measures fail.

Review of the Etiopathogenesis and Management Options of Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Chronica Helicis

“…Some authors suggest naming this condition as chondrodermatitis nodularis auricularis due to its location [ 4 ]. The unusual presentation of Winkler’s disease was reported as a large nodular growth arising from the tragus, nearly occluding the external auditory canal with a size of 1.5 cm by 2 cm [ 8 ].…”

“…Epidemiology: CNCH is fairly uncommon; however, it has a predilection for fair-skinned males, aged 40 to 80 years old [ 5 , 9 ]. Though CNCH does affect women, the male to female ratio has been reported to be 10 to 1 [ 4 , 10 - 11 ]. Typically, CNCH occurs unilaterally; however, bilateral lesions have been reported with an incidence of 3% to 7% [ 4 , 10 ].…”

“…Though CNCH does affect women, the male to female ratio has been reported to be 10 to 1 [ 4 , 10 - 11 ]. Typically, CNCH occurs unilaterally; however, bilateral lesions have been reported with an incidence of 3% to 7% [ 4 , 10 ]. Bilateral lesions tend to appear in patients who change their sleeping side after developing CNCH on the contralateral ear [ 12 ].…”

Chondrodermatitis nodularis chronica helicis

“…[ 1 2 ] Other treatment modalities include curettage/electrocauterization, cryotherapy, CO 2 laser, Argon laser, triamcinolone injections, collagen injections, topical glucocorticoids, and topical nitroglycerin. [ 1 3 ] Recently, auricular pressure releasing cushions including “doughnut”-shaped cushions have shown promising results and are becoming a popular choice in the treatment of CNCH. [ 3 ]…”

“…[ 1 3 ] Recently, auricular pressure releasing cushions including “doughnut”-shaped cushions have shown promising results and are becoming a popular choice in the treatment of CNCH. [ 3 ]…”