Other ear infections
Perichondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage skin. Causes Such an inflammation is bacterial (more often Pseudomonas and staphylococci). They reach the cartilage skin via injuries to the auricle (for example during operations or ear piercings).
Symptoms The auricle is swollen and reddened. However, the earlobe is not affected, as it does not contain any cartilage. If the inflammation is advanced, necrosis can occur, i.e. tissue dies.
This typically changes the shape of the ear (cauliflower ear). Therapy To fight the bacterial inflammation, antibiotics are administered orally. In late stages of the disease, infusions with antibiotics may be necessary. In addition, surgical removal of the necrotizing cartilage may be necessary.
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