External auditory canal obstruction due to tuberous sclerosis complex angiofibromas: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), an autosomal dominant genetic disorder and auricula and external auditory canal (EAC) involvement, is rare. Surgical excision is rarely recommended for cutaneous lesions. Case presentation A 31-year-old male patient was admitted with a complaint of left fullness, discharge, and conductive hearing loss. Symmetrical nodular cutaneous lesions on the malar region, tragus, and lateral portion of the EAC bilaterally were noted. The patient had diagnosed with TSC during adolescence clinically and genetically. Surgery was planned to obtain a favorable, self-cleaning EAC rather than total excision of angiofibromas. Angiofibromas on the EAC and tragus were excised. The defect was repaired by sliding a fasciocutaneous island flap inferiorly created in the preauricular area. No EAC stenosis or angiofibroma recurrence was observed during follow-up. Discussion Surgical excision for this clinical entity provides satisfactory management even if it was not routinely recommended for other skin lesions.

Keywords

• Tuberous sclerosis complex
• Neurocutaneous syndromes
• Hamartoma
• External ear
• Island flap