Summary
Cholesteatoma is an abnormal collection of keratinising squamous epithelium and keratin within the middle ear/mastoid. It is non-malignant but can erode bone and cause serious infective complications. It can exist without discharge or substantial hearing loss. EAONO/JOS2017
Definitive treatment is usually surgical removal with preservation of function, reconstruction where appropriate and a planned surveillance strategy. Ear drops and regular microsuction control associated infection/debris but do not reliably eradicate the disease. ENT UK mastoid surgery
New facial weakness, severe vertigo/hearing deterioration, postauricular swelling, severe headache, meningism or altered consciousness requires urgent assessment for complications.