Perichondritis
The term perichondritis is itself a misnomer, as the cartilage is almost always involved - Rick Pescatore
HWN Suggests
You will be shocked at the dangers of ear piercings and tattoos
Ear piercings and tattoos have become increasingly popular, but have you ever wondered if they might be dangerous? You might think that just a small piercing or a tattoo couldn't possibly do any damage – but think again.
Unsterilised needles
Tattoos are basically a medical procedure; the skin is penetrated with a needle and ink is injected into the dermis, which is the second, deeper layer of the skin under the epidermis. Unfortunately tattoos are not only painful, but can also result in infection if not done correctly. Unsterilised needles, for instance, can cause infections. A Health24 article cautions that if the tattoo artist is not properly trained,…
Articles of Interest
Perichondritis: Not Just Simple Cellulitis
The term perichondritis is itself a misnomer, as the cartilage is almost always involved, with abscess formation and cavitation.
Acute atraumatic pinna (auricular) perichondritis
Perichondritis of the external ear is referred to in the literature as pinna perichondritis as well as auricular perichondritis. Pinna (auricular) perichondritis is an infection involving cartilage and subcutaneous tissue. The resulting infection produces swelling which can be severe, and can lead to focal ear necrosis. The term perichondritis may even be considered a misnomer “as the cartilage is almost always involved.
Post-piercing perichondritis
Piercing has become more and more popular among adolescents. The procedure is generally performed by unqualified professionals and carries its risk. Non-sterilized material or inappropiate hygiene increases the possibility of perichondritis and celulitis.
What Would I Do Next? Perichondritis
Rick, Mike, and Miz discuss another cause of a “red ear” that you may not have thought about! Perichondritis is a unique infection of the auricle typically caused by Pseudomonas. It can have devastating effects and requires anti-pseudomonal antibiotic coverage and expedient evaluation by ENT.
Resources
Journal of Urgent Care Medicine
With the popularity of piercing of the ear cartilage, urgent care providers need to be on the alert for perichondritis and to treat it promptly.
WikEM
No involvement of the lobule which distinguishes it from otitis externa. No involvement of the lobule which distinguishes it from otitis externa. Ciprofloxacin 750mg q12 hours for 7 days.
