Foreign body of middle ear masquerading cholesteatoma

Abstract

Numerous theories have been proposed in the past for the etiology of cholesteatoma. Foreign body (FB) of middle ear has been rarely reported in the literature which if neglected for long duration of time can lead to cholesteatoma. An adolescent male presented with chronically discharging ear. Patient was taken up for exploration. During which multiple FB was seen in the middle ear overlying extensive cholesteatoma. Patient underwent canal wall down mastoidectomy with tympanoplasty. Foreign body of external auditory canal should be managed meticulously by skilled otologist. Patient with chronic ear discharge not responding to antibiotics should raise a suspicion of FB. Neglected middle ear FB can cause cholesteatoma. Early intervention in these cases will prevent complications.