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Cholesteatoma is an abnormal accumulation of skin behind the eardrum or the air cells behind the ear called the mastoid. Presentation of a cholesteatoma varies and may range from few symptoms to multiple symptoms. Typically, the affected child has a conductive hearing loss and may experience foul smelling ear drainage. A cholesteatoma may produce a wide range of symptoms and even life threatening complications.
Management of this disease is surgical and the extent and type of surgery varies from patient to patient.
The main priority in cholesteatoma surgery is total irradication of disease. Hearing restoration is the secondary concern and may be re-established at the initial time of surgery or at a subsequent surgery.
Adequate long-term follow up is paramount for the successful management of cholesteatoma in children.
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