Aural Squamous Papilloma in a 5-year-old: A Rare Case Report with Literature Review

Abstract

Aural squamous papilloma (SP) is a rare benign epithelial tumor of the external auditory canal (EAC), particularly uncommon in the pediatric age group. We report a case of 5-year-old boy who presented with chronic itching, aural fullness, and a progressively enlarging warty growth in the left EAC since early childhood. Examination revealed an irregular, exuberant mass filling the cartilaginous EAC and conchal skin; however, the tympanic membrane could not be visualized. Under otomicroscopy, surgical excision was performed with postauricular split-thickness skin grafting to cover the denuded cartilage and prevent canal stenosis. Histopathology confirmed SP with associated ceruminous gland hyperplasia. This case underlines the rare instance of EAC papilloma in a young child, supporting vertical transmission as a possible etiological route. Although malignant transformation is exceptionally rare, long-term follow-up is required. This report emphasizes that aural SP should be considered in the differential diagnosis of masses in pediatric EAC.