Audiology/Otolaryngology/hole with smelly discharge

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Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 9/25/2008


Question
My 12 years old daughter was born with this hole just above her ear and it has a smelly discharge if she rubs it it smells very bad and the fluid smells like something died in there..it bothers her so much that she cups her hand over it to keep the smell in. I've mentioned it to the doctor, but she said it's nothing. Should I have her see a specialist? I heard it can lead to meningitis...is this true?

Answer
Hi Mari,
Your daughter has what is known as an ear pit, or preauricular cyst.  Preauricular pits are located near the front of the ear and mark the entrance to a sinus tract that may travel under the skin near the ear cartilage. They may become infected, leading to cellulitis or abscess. The fact that there is already a smelly discharge means that there is an infection.  You need to consult an ENT immediately for proper assessment and treatment.  If left untreated, the infection can spread. Once the infection is cleared, the ENT will assess the pit and determine if surgery if indicated.
Here is some information: http://www.emedicine.com/ent/TOPIC200.HTM
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

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Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D.

Expertise

I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with 25 years of experience. I can answer questions regarding hearing loss, both general and specific, dizziness and vertigo, auditory processing disorders, hearing aids, aural rehabilitation as well as specialized audiologic testing, i.e., Auditory Brainstem Response, VideoNystagmography, Otoacoutic Emissions. I have worked with both pediatric and adult populations. Because of my extensive musical background, I am able to respond to questions regarding the special needs of musicians.

Experience

I have been an audiologist for over 25 years with a specialty in electrophysiology of the auditory and vestibular systems and pediatric evaluations. I currently work in my private consulting practice providing services to nursing homes and schools. My Doctoral research was on specialized techniques in Auditory Brainstem Responses.

Organizations
American Academy of Audiology, - American Speech Language Hearing Association, - Hearing Loss Association of America

Education/Credentials
Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology), Nova Southeastern University, 2000. Board Certified Doctor of Audiology (American Board of Audiology) Certificate in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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