Chondrodermatitis

I.          Definition:
 
Chondrodermatitis helicis is a condition in which small, painful bumps are found on the borders or elevations of the ears.
                  
II.  Cause:
 
·           Chondrodermatitis helicis is found most often in males and people past middle age.
 
·           Chondrodermatitis helicis may occur when pressure is constantly applied to the same ear, such as when holding a telephone.
 
·           This condition often occurs as a result of sleeping on the side of the involved ear.
 
·           It is thought that reduced blood flow to the cartilage in the ear is responsible for this condition.
 
·           Years of chronic sun exposure may contribute to this condition.
 
 
III.  Treatment:
 
·           Sometimes chondrodermatitis helicis responds to topical cortisone ointments.
 
·           Cortisone injections can also be used to treat chondrodermatitis helicis.
 
·           Surgery may be needed in difficult cases, but recurrence of the condition after surgery is common.