Primary cholesteatoma of the mastoid.

Abstract

A TUMOR which resembled a primary or true cholesteatoma of the mastoid was observed in an elderly man. Roentgenograms suggested a secondary cholesteatoma, but histological examination established the diagnosis of primary cholesteatoma without cholesterol crystals. REPORT OF A CASE M. C., a 72-year-old man, came to the hospital with complaints of a swelling behind his right ear which had lasted for the previous three months and occasional slight dizziness. His past history showed that he had always had excellent health and his condition had been good except for some stomach ulcers which he had had a number of years ago. He had also received some shotgun wounds in his neck and chest about 25 years ago, which were accidentally discovered during the x-ray examination. He never had any ear complaints or discharge, pains, or the like. Examination of his ear revealed perfectly normal drum membranes without any perforation or scars.