Diagnosis and management of Auricular Chondritis: A case report

Background: Auricular chondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage of the auricle, characterized by serum or pus effusion between the perichondrium and cartilage layer of the outer ear. It is often caused by bacterial infections targeting the ear cartilage. When perichondritis extends deeper into the cartilage, it results in chondritis.

Objective: To report a case of auricular chondritis

Case Report: A 25-year-old female presented with a complaint of a lump on her left earlobe for the past month. On physical examination, a lump was observed involving nearly the entire auricle. The lump was fluctuant, red, tender, and associated with loss of ear contour. The patient underwent incision and drainage with the insertion of a plastic tube and compression of the earlobe.

Clinical question: What is the optimal management approach for auricular chondritis?

Methods: A review of evidence-based literature on the management of auricular chondritis.

Result: Treatment for auricular chondritis involves debridement combined with antibiotic and corticosteroid therapy to reduce inflammation.

Conclusion: In this case, auricular chondritis was successfully managed using antibiotics and corticosteroids in conjunction with surgical intervention. This approach prevented recurrent infections and minimized complications. The drainage technique used ensured that the perichondrium remained intact, preventing cartilage wrinkling and further deformation, thereby reducing the risk of the cauliflower ear's progression.