Pleomorphic adenoma of the external auditory canal: A common tumour in an uncommon site

Abstract

Background/aim Pleomorphic adenoma is a common slow growing benign tumour that is known to occur mainly in the salivary glands. Case reports of pleomorphic adenomas originating from the external auditory canal have been extremely rare. Case presentation We report the case of a 64-year-old patient who presented with 2-year history of a slow growing mass of the left external auditory canal. Excision of the mass was performed and pathology was consistent with pleomorphic adenoma. Conclusion Pleomorphic adenomas of the external auditory canal are uncommon and can be easily misdiagnosed as aural polyps or granulation tissue. Biopsies are often necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Keywords

• pleomorphic adenoma
• external auditory canal
• ceruminous glands
• aural polyps