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Temporomandibular joint fistula into the external ear canal

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2012

J Ajduk ,
M Ries ,
D Vagic  and
A Batos-Tripalo
J Ajduk*
Affiliation:
Department of ENT Head and Neck Surgery, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
M Ries
Affiliation:
Department of ENT Head and Neck Surgery, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
D Vagic
Affiliation:
Department of ENT Head and Neck Surgery, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
A Batos-Tripalo
Affiliation:
Department of Radiology, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Jakov Ajduk, Department of ENT Head and Neck Surgery, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Vinogradska c 29, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia Fax: +385 1 3768293 E-mail: jakov.ajduk@gmail.com
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Abstract

Background:

Temporomandibular joint fistula into the external auditory canal is a very rare condition. We report a case of spontaneous fistula which presented with repeated episodes of clear fluid otorrhoea and ear infection.

Case report:

A 53-year-old woman complained of occasional episodes of clear fluid otorrhoea from the right ear followed by infection. Otoscopic examination showed a normal tympanic membrane and normal skin in the external auditory meatus. Otomicroscopy showed a small punctum on the anteroinferior part of the meatus. Computed tomography identified a foramen of Huschke. Surgery revealed a fistula between the meatus and the temporomandibular joint, which was successfully resolved.

Conclusion:

This report presents a rare case of a fistula between the temporomandibular joint and the external auditory meatus, associated with Huschke's foramen. Such a defect can be quite difficult to detect. It should be suspected in cases of chronic otorrhoea when neither middle nor external ear disease is apparent. Surgery is usually successful, and is advised in cases with repeated complications.

Keywords

External Auditory CanalTemporomandibular JointOtorrheaForamen Of Huschke
Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 126 , Issue 8 , August 2012 , pp. 837 - 839
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2012

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