A Case of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis involving the External Auditory Canal

Abstract

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is commonly characterized by abnormal function and differentiation or proliferation of monocytes. In LCH, granulomatous lesions, including langerine-positive histocytes and inflammatory infiltrates, can occur to all tissues, particularly well in the bones, skin, lungs, and pituitary gland. In case of external auditory canal LCH, conductive hearing loss may occur, and the most common symptom is otorrhea. Here we present a case that 49-year-old male with external auditory canal mass. Since no invasive findings were seen in radiologic study, endoscopic transcanal excision was performed and LCH was proven by pathologic report. We present this case of external auditory canal LCH with the review of literature.