Patient's question:
Recently it's been a bit smelly.Doctor's answer:
Congenital preauricular fistula is a common otological disease. It is caused by the failure of fusion of the first and second pharyngeal arches during embryonic development or incomplete closure of the first pharyngeal groove. A fistula is a blind tube that may branch and curve, with its external opening usually located above and in front of the helix crus. The lumen is lined with stratified squamous epithelium, containing desquamated material, and occasionally, a small amount of viscous sebaceous gland-like material may ooze from the fistula opening. Once infected, it becomes red, swollen, painful, and purulent, and can recur repeatedly. This condition is an autosomal dominant genetic disease with incomplete penetrance. Those without symptoms do not require treatment. In cases of infection, anti-infective treatment is needed. If an abscess forms, incision and drainage are required. After healing, surgical excision of the fistula is necessary.