Fibrous Dysplasia of the External Auditory Canal: Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Fibrous dysplasia is a rare pathology characterized by the abnormal growth of fibrous tissue, which can manifest as an isolated condition or as part of craniofacial disorders. When it occurs in the external auditory canal, it presents unique clinical challenges. This slowly growing benign tumor is known for its potential to recur, which raises concerns regarding treatment strategies and patient management. Case Presentation: A 21-year-old male patient, was referred for right unilateral progressive hearing loss evolving since one year, without any associated signs, the otoscopic examination found a nearly complete stenosis of the right external auditory canal, preventing the visualization of the eardrum. The audiogram revealed a right conductive hearing loss of 60 db. The temporal CT scan showed a significant thinning of the EAC suggesting right fibrous dysplasia of the external auditory canal. The patient was discussed at a staff meeting; the decision of surgical management was made. Which improved his auditory comfort and enhanced his hearing, with no recurrence observed during his follow-up. Conclusion: The main points emphasize that imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosis, often allowing for confirmation without the need for biopsy. Surgical treatment remains a topic of debate, highlighting the importance of selecting the right indications and timing for intervention. A tailored approach to each patient is essential to optimize outcomes and minimize recurrence.