Auricular perichondritis can be divided into serous and suppurative types. The lesion involves serum exudation (serous) or pus formation (suppurative) between the cartilage and the perichondrium.

bubble_chart Diagnosis

Serous cases often present with only localized swelling of the auricle, a rubbery texture, no redness, and no significant pain. Some may experience local distension, burning, and itching sensations. Puncture can extract pale yellow serous fluid, and cultures show no bacterial growth.

In suppurative cases, there is severe pain in the auricle. Examination reveals redness, swelling, significant tenderness, and a fluctuant sensation. Some may rupture and discharge pus.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

Serous chondromembraneitis: Under aseptic conditions, perform puncture and fluid aspiration, then inject a sclerosing agent to prevent recurrence of effusion. The local area should be pressure bandaged. Alternatively, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen can be applied after aspiration, with most cases requiring only 1–2 treatments for complete recovery. Magnetic therapy or ultrashort wave diathermy can be used as adjunct treatments.

Suppurative chondromembraneitis: Systemic administration of sufficient and effective antibiotics is required to control infection. Physical therapy may be beneficial in the early stages. Once an abscess forms, incision and drainage should be performed to thoroughly remove pus, granulation tissue, and necrotic cartilage. In cases of severe residual deformity affecting appearance, plastic reconstructive surgery may be considered.