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A Pediatric cholesteatoma (cho·les·te·a·to·ma) is a benign (noncancerous) skin cyst (growth) that develops inside the ear, behind the eardrum (middle ear).
214-456-6862
Fax: 214-456-7115
469-497-2504
Fax: 469-497-2510
469-488-7000
Fax: 469-488-7001
469-303-5000
Fax: 214-867-9511
Request an Appointment with codes: Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT)
A cholesteatoma is a cyst made up of dead skin cells that continue to shed. It can grow larger and damage the fragile bones of the middle ear. An untreated cholesteatoma growth can lead to balance issues, hearing loss and may also impact facial muscle function.
Symptoms of cholesteatoma range from mild to severe, depending on how large the cyst is and how long it has been present.
Cholesteatoma is typically either congenital (present at birth) or is an acquired (developed after birth) problem.
Causes include:
Children may be born with a cholesteatoma cyst.
Children may be born with a birth defect in the eustachian tube (passage from the back of the nose to the middle of the ear). Normally, the tube allows air to flow naturally through it while equalizing ear pressure. Any change or damage to the tube can create a vacuum that will cause the ear drum to retract and form a cyst in the pocket.
Repeated ear infections or fluid in the middle ear can lead to cysts.
Repeated ear infections, colds, sinus infections and severe allergic reactions or symptoms can damage or obstruct air flow in the eustachian tube. The mucous that builds up inside the tube can cause a cyst to form.
If left untreated, the eardrum tear (rupture) causes dead skin cells to accumulate and creates pressure in the middle ear. This leads to the cholesteatoma and possibly, additional complications (like hearing loss).