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Otology/Neurotology

Pearls and Pitfalls in Evaluation and Management of Ear Canal Masses

Sunday, October 1, 2023
3:45 PM - 4:45 PM East Coast USA Time
Location: Ballroom B1

    Moderator(s)

  • Mia E. Miller, MD

    Otolaryngologist
    Cedars Sinai
    Los Angeles, CA, United States

    • Panelist(s)

  • Jennifer C. Alyono, MD

    Clinical Assistant Professor - Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery
    Stanford University
    Stanford, CA, United States

  • James G. Naples, MD

    Assistant Professor
    Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/ Harvard Medical School
    Needham, MA, United States

  • Cameron C. Wick, MD

    Associate Professor
    Washington University
    Saint Louis, MO, United States

Disclosure(s):
James G. Naples, MD: No relevant relationships to disclose.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This panel will present a case-based approach to evaluation and management of ear canal masses. Panelists will be asked to navigate through cases that highlight principles of management. First, patient history and physical exam findings will be reviewed. Differential diagnosis of an ear canal mass will be discussed, including a review of benign and malignant lesions commonly found in the external auditory canal. Timing and preparation for biopsy will be discussed. Pearls and pitfalls of the workup of ear canal masses will be presented. Second, further studies to evaluate the mass will be discussed, specifically comparing the pros and cons of different imaging modalities. Timing of imaging in relation to biopsy will be examined. Third, treatment options will be reviewed, including medical management, office procedures and surgery when indicated. Finally, complications encountered during the evaluation and management of ear canal masses will be discussed. Key points to avoid pitfalls in the evaluation and management of ear canal masses will be demonstrated.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: 1) Attendees should be able to demonstrate a knowledge of step-by-step management of ear canal masses.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: 2) Attendees should be able to compare imaging modalities for evaluation of ear canal masses.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: 3) Attendees should be able to explain management options for ear canal masses and pearls to avoid pitfalls in the workup of ear canal masses.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Ear canal masses comprise a broad range of benign and malignant processes and otolaryngologists use clinical judgement to decide when to biopsy and obtain imaging studies for evaluation. There is a need for a review of a standard approach to ear canal masses and pearls for optimal management.