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Perichondritis is usually incited by blunt trauma to the external ear. It presents with marked ear tenderness and overlying soft tissue swelling. The blood supply to the ear cartilage is somewhat fragile and bacterial infections can spread rapidly in this area. If medical attention is not sought, cartilage necrosis with long-term ear deformity may occur. Recurring infections and cartilage deformation are common in boxers and is known as "cauliflower" ear.
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