Symptoms of Ear Cancer: Key Causes and Treatment Options

Ear Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Ear cancer is an uncommon ailment that typically originates as skin cancer in the outer ear and can potentially spread to the inner ear. Despite its rarity, it affects around 1 to 6 million people every year. This medical condition can occur across all ages, but commonly affects older adults between the ages of 60 and 70.

Additionally, in some cases, it can occur inside the ear canal. Ear canal cancer, also known as auditory canal cancer, is a rare form of head and neck cancer that makes up less than 0.2% of all cases.

Read ahead to learn more about ear cancer causes, symptoms, treatment options and other crucial aspects!

What is Ear Cancer?

Ear cancer can impact the outer ear, middle ear, or even the inner ear. It may also affect the ear canal and the eardrum. Following is a detailed overview:

• The most prevalent form of cancer is known as squamous cell carcinoma, which targets the squamous cells of the outermost layer of the skin. It can even grow deeper and affect other healthy tissues in the body.
• Basal cell carcinoma affects the outermost layer of the skin (basal cells in the epidermis) and is the second most common type of skin cancer.
• Adenoid cystic carcinoma is the third most common type of cancer that affects the glands that produce earwax.
• Melanoma is an uncommon form of cancer that targets the melanocyte cells in the skin of the ear canal.
• Sometimes, giant tumors can affect the parotid glands, the largest salivary gland in the human body, and can spread to the ear canal.

What are the Causes of Ear Cancer?

There is no single definite cause of ear cancer. However, researchers have identified a few risk factors that may increase the risk of this medical condition:

• Exposure to Sunlight: The harmful UV rays of the sun can increase the risk of skin cancer. Ear cancer primarily impacts the outer ear, manifesting as a type of skin cancer.
• Chronic Ear Infections: According to a study, people with untreated chronic ear infections faced ear cancer at a later stage. The ear infection triggers an inflammatory response in the body, leading to the development of this medical condition.
• Aging: Ear cancers are common in older people. According to a study, squamous cell carcinoma of the temporal bone commonly affects people in their 70s.
• Misuse of Cotton Swabs: Frequent use of cotton swabs can create a wound in the ear canal. If left untreated, it can develop into cancer. However, No strong evidence links cotton swabs directly to ear cancer. Trauma or chronic irritation may increase risk, but causation is unproven. 
• Prior Radiotherapy: People who have previously suffered from other head and neck cancers and have received radiation therapy have a greater chance of developing ear cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Ear Cancer? 

The signs and symptoms of ear cancer can vary based on the area of the affected ear. However, the common ear cancer symptoms are:

1. Consistent Pain: Constant, unbearable pain in the ear can be the first warning sign of ear cancer.
2. Discharge from the Ear: Blood and pus-like substances can flow out of the ear, suggesting the presence of ear cancer.
3. Hearing Loss: If it has affected only one ear, then the patient may experience hearing loss in that ear.
4. Lumps on the Ear: Any lumps, wounds, or painful sores in the outer ear or the ear canal can be indicative of ear cancer.
5. Swelling: Chronic swelling in the ear area can be a warning sign of ear cancer in the inner ear.
6. Tinnitus: Constant ringing or noise heard in the ear can be a sign of ear cancer.

If these symptoms persist for a long time, then consult a medical professional immediately, as timely treatment is essential for positive outcomes.

What are the Treatment Options for Ear Cancer?

Treatment options depend on the severity and type of ear cancer. However, a few common ear cancer treatment options include:

• Chemotherapy: It is an advanced treatment considered when the cancer has grown into advanced stages or has spread into other healthy tissues. Chemotherapy can assist in preventing the spread of cancer by eliminating the cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: This treatment method can kill the cancer cells or prevent their growth. It can be used independently or in conjunction with surgical procedures, depending on the nature and extent of the ear cancer.
• Surgery: Surgical methods are used to remove cancerous tumors and the nearby lymph nodes in the ear, depending on the area affected, to control the spread of cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: Certain drugs are used to target specific molecules in the cancer cells that help in their growth and stop the spread of cancer into the healthy tissues.

Ear cancer is rare, but it can have potentially life-threatening consequences if not treated in time. Early detection and an effective treatment plan can ensure proper recovery. Thus, it is wise to have health insurance to safeguard your health and finances during these critical times.

At Star Health, we offer comprehensive coverage for cancer treatment under our Star Cancer Care Platinum Insurance Policy. We also provide hassle-free, cashless treatment at over 14,000 network hospitals across India.

Call us now and safeguard your health and finances!