Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 6/6/2009

Question
Hello, I am in my mid-30s and have a preauricular cyst that has had foul smelling drainage regularly for my entire life. I was once told this is just keratin, but the reading I have been doing lately seems to indicate that this is actually a sign of infection and most of these pits do not consistently drain or have this discharge that I have always experienced. Lately my cyst/pit has also been itchy quite often. Although it is not swollen and I don't recall it ever being swollen, I think the itching along with the discharge could indicate infection, so I should probably see an ENT as soon as I can get a referral.

My question is: Could I have been suffering from an undetected infection for essentially my entire life? If so, would/could this have had an effect on my overall health? I've had many health problems for most of my life, but especially over the last 10 years, and I can't help but wonder if this couldn't be a contributing factor. (Assuming the regular discharge is indeed infection.)

Thank you very much for your help!

Answer
Hi S,
Yes, it definitely sounds as if you have an infection and, from your description, this has pretty much been the case for your entire life. Any foul smelling drainage from a pre-auricular cyst is a sign of infection.  

As for having an effect on your overall health, I cannot say fro sure.  But, any infection if left untreated will certainly take its toll on your health.  Also, the presence of pre-auricular cysts are associated with other conditions, such as disorders of the kidneys, which may be the root cause of your other health issues.

Here is a good reference on ear pits (another term for pre-auricular cysts): http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/845288-overview

In any case, it is time for you to consult an ENT for treatment.

Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology