Loss of auricle:

Loss of auricle:

Loss of auricle, also known as microtia or anotia, is a congenital malformation of the ear in which the external ear (auricle) is underdeveloped and either abnormally shaped (microtia) or absent (anotia). The external ear canal may also be atretic (absent). The severity of microtia ranges from a measurably small external ear with minimal structural abnormality to an ear that consists of few rudimentary structures and an absent or blind-ending external ear canal.

Causes of Loss of Auricle

The exact cause of loss of auricle is not fully understood, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some possible causes include:

• Genetic mutations
• Exposure to certain medications or chemicals during pregnancy
• Viral infections during pregnancy
• Poor blood supply to the developing ear

Symptoms of Loss of Auricle

The symptoms of loss of auricle can vary depending on the severity of the malformation. Some common symptoms include:

• Absence or underdevelopment of the external ear
• Absence or underdevelopment of the ear canal
• Hearing loss
• Difficulty localizing sound
• Psychological distress due to the appearance of the ear

Diagnosis of Loss of Auricle

Diagnosing loss of auricle involves a thorough physical examination of the ear and surrounding structures. Imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT) scans, may also be performed to evaluate the extent of the malformation and to assess the inner ear and hearing function. Hearing tests may also be conducted to evaluate the extent and nature of hearing loss.