Ear Cancer: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Ear cancer usually occurs on the outer ear, most commonly in the skin cells. The medical term for this is squamous cell carcinoma, which originates from the flat cells lining the external ear canal and the auricle (the visible part of the ear).

Yes, ear cancer is rare and affects 1 to 6 people per million each year, accounting for only a small percentage of cancer cases. Despite its rarity, early detection and treatment are essential for improving outcomes.

Ear cancer can affect people of all ages, but it is more commonly diagnosed in older adults, typically between the ages of 60 and 70.

Recognising the symptoms of ear cancer is vital for early diagnosis. Although symptoms can vary from person to person, the most common signs include:

Persistent earache	Unexplained pain in the ear that doesn’t go away.
Bleeding or discharge from the ear	Bloody or pus-like discharge can indicate ear cancer.
Hearing loss	Particularly if it affects only one ear.
Lumps or sores on the ear	Any lumps, ulcers, or wounds on the outer ear or ear canal should be examined.
Tinnitus	Persistent ringing or noise in the ear may be linked to ear cancer.
Swelling	Persistent swelling in the ear area should be checked by a healthcare professional.

Important: these symptoms can also be associated with less serious conditions, so it’s important to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Diagnosing ear cancer involves several steps, starting with a detailed medical history and a physical examination by an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. 

Diagnostic procedures may include:

Biopsy: a small tissue sample is taken from the suspicious area for lab testing to check for cancer cells.

Imaging tests: CT, MRI, or PET scans help determine the size of the cancer and whether it has spread.

Endoscopy: a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is used to examine the ear canal in detail.

Fine needle aspiration: in some cases, a fine needle is used to extract cells for further analysis.

Treatment for ear cancer depends on factors such as the stage of the cancer, its location, and your overall health. 

Common treatment options may include:

Surgery: the cancerous tissue is surgically removed. Depending on the tumour's size and location, part of the ear or nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.

Radiotherapy: radiation therapy kills cancer cells or prevents them from growing. It may be used alone or in combination with surgery.

Chemotherapy: often used in advanced stages or when the cancer has spread, chemotherapy can help control the disease.

Targeted therapy: some drugs target specific molecules involved in cancer growth and may be used in certain cases.

Treatment for ear cancer can lead to several side effects, including:

Hearing loss: surgery and radiation therapy can result in partial or total hearing loss, depending on the extent of the treatment.

Changes in appearance: surgical procedures, especially if part of the outer ear is removed, can alter appearance.

Speech and swallowing difficulties: Surgery or radiation can sometimes affect speech and swallowing.

Emotional impact: coping with a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends is crucial.

The prognosis for ear cancer depends on the stage at which it is diagnosed and the effectiveness of the treatment. Early detection and prompt treatment improve the chances of a positive outcome. Many people with early-stage ear cancer can be cured, whilst others may require ongoing treatment and regular follow-ups. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor for any recurrence.

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing ear cancer, including:
 

Prolonged sun exposure	Extended time in the sun without protection can increase the risk of skin cancer, including ear cancer. This is particularly true for those with fair skin.
Smoking	Tobacco use is a major risk factor for various types of cancer, including ear cancer.
Chronic ear infections	Repeated or long-term ear infections can contribute to the development of ear cancer.
Human papillomavirus (HPV)	Some studies suggest a link between certain strains of HPV and ear cancer.
Previous radiation therapy	Those who have received radiation therapy in the head and neck area for other conditions may have a higher risk of ear cancer.

Ear cancer is a rare but serious condition that should not be underestimated. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and timely treatment are essential for improving outcomes and quality of life. Regular check-ups and awareness of risk factors can play a key role in early detection. While treating ear cancer can be challenging, advances in medicine offer hope and effective options for those affected.