Paraganglioma of External Auditory Canal: A Rare Entity Case Report

Abstract

Paragangliomas are benign tumours originating from the paraganglia. In the ear paragangliomas are found
commonly in middle ear or jugular bulb. Paragangliomas of external auditory canal are extremely rare. Our case
describes a woman in her 5th decade presenting with difficulty in hearing since 6 months and swelling in the
right ear. Physical examination revealed a red to pink swelling, non friable, bleeding on touch and obscuring
the external auditory canal completely. Differential diagnosis of granuloma/exostosis was considered. Patient
underwent excision biopsy. Hemorrhage during surgery was copious and suspicion of vascular lesion was raised.
Histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of paraganglioma. The aim of this article is
to make clinicians aware of the entity for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.