Hole outside the ear...?

Question

Hi, I have a tiny hole just outside my ear, I was born with it and so was my brother. It some times produces a foul smelling liquid, my brother got it operated and filled it when he was a kid and later had another surgery to open it up when it started swelling and paining.

Interestingly my brothers elder daughter also has the same hole.

I'm wondering if any one has seen this before, and what is it called in the medical world?

Answer 1

Hi, I am an Audiologist.

It is called a Pre-auricular pit, cyst or sinus. In some cases it can be a sign of a birth defect that could also effect hearing. In many cases, it is hereditary without associated hearing loss.

The Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor can treat the infections, and surgery to remove the cyst is also an option.

Answer 2

Tammy this is a good question , I may have the same problem as the earphones just don't stay in my ears, i have never found any that fit snugly and comfortably, so I'm guessing you are wondering if you are doing it right?Maybe the ones that go over the head are better or blue tooth types good luck i have given up!Ike and Katey gave very helpful answers I think

Answer 3

My mother, elder sister and myself also have this hole but i have never had any problems with it although i could remember my mother got an abcess there some years ago but it happened only once, yes i am familiar with the foul scent but this only happens to me sometimes. I am also curious to know if this particular birth defect happens to all races, i am of African descent,

Answer 4

I think the same thingimabob as the audiologist person