Audiology/Otolaryngology/HOLE NEAR THE TOP OF EAR

Advertisement

Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 1/8/2009


Question
Hello my name is Nicholas Dean and since birth I have had a little pinhole at the top of my ear near my side burns. My father also has the same thing. I have no idea what it is. Is it good or bad?

Answer
Hi Nicolas,
What you have is neither good nor bad. You and your father have what is known as an ear pit, or preauricular pit.  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. Because the sinus tract is lined with squamous epithelium, it may become infected, leading to cellulitis or an abscess. So, if you notice any swelling, redness or smelly discharge, you need to consult a physician immediately
Here is some information: http://www.emedicine.com/ent/TOPIC200.HTM
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology

Audiology/Otolaryngology

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

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

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.