A Case of Pseudocyst of the Auricle Treated by Incisional Biopsy / 대한피부과학회지

ABSTRACT

Pseudocyst of the auricle is an uncommon condition, which typically presents as an asymptomatic, noninflammatory swelling of the external ear. Most of the patients are usually young, healthy males without trauma. Histological examination is characterized by the intracartilaginous accumulation of serous fluid without an epithelial lining. The pathogenesis is unknown. Some theories about the release of lysosomal enzymes or inflammatory mediators and embryologic dysplasia of the auricle cartilage have been suggested. Treatment of pseudocyst of the auricle has usually involved a simple aspiration and compressive dressing, but this may often cause the fluid to reaccumulate. Treatment by surgical excision may result in a permanent deformity and scar of the auricle. Therefore, various treatments have been suggested. We report a case of pseudocyst of the auricle successfully treated by incisional biopsy only.