cauliflower ear

Introduction

Aslo see auricular hematoma

Etiology

• trauma to the external ear

Epidemiology

• most common among boxers, wrestlers, martial arts participants, & rugby players

Pathology

• collection of blood or other fluid under the perichondrium
• separation of ear cartilage from the overlying perichondrium
• formation of fibrous tissue in the overlying skin

Differential diagnosis

• auricular hematoma

Management

• prevention:
  • incision & drainage* of auricular hematoma
  • headgear 'scrum cap' in ruby, 'ear guard' in wresting

* compression dressing to stop bleeding

• closure with stitches

More general terms

• ear disease
• skin disease (dermatologic disorder, dermatopathy, dermatosis)
• osteochondropathy (disorder of bone & cartilage)
• skeletal deformity

Additional terms

• auricular hematoma