Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is a common symptom indicative of a cholesteatoma?

1. Redness of the tympanic membrane

2. Foul-smelling ear discharge

3. Severe ear pain

4. Itching in the ear canal

The correct answer is: Foul-smelling ear discharge

A common symptom indicative of a cholesteatoma is foul-smelling ear discharge. Cholesteatoma is an abnormal, noncancerous skin growth that can develop in the middle ear behind the eardrum. It often arises due to chronic ear infections and can lead to the accumulation of debris, skin cells, and fluid. The discharge is not just any fluid; it typically has a distinct foul odor due to bacterial infections or the presence of necrotic tissue. While other symptoms may be present in cases of ear infections or other ear pathologies, the characteristic malodorous discharge is particularly telling for cholesteatoma. It signifies chronicity and potential complications associated with this condition, which can lead to further complications if left untreated. The other options, while they may be relevant to various ear conditions, do not specifically align with the hallmark features of cholesteatoma. For instance, redness of the tympanic membrane is more commonly associated with acute otitis media rather than cholesteatoma. Severe ear pain might indicate a range of conditions, including acute infections, but does not distinctly point to cholesteatoma. Itching in the ear canal might suggest eczema or external ear problems rather than the internal issues associated with cholesteat