A cholesteatoma is a growth behind the eardrum. As a cholesteatoma (kul-less-tee-uh-TOE-muh) grows, it can damage the bones of the middle ear. This can lead to hearing loss if it’s not treated.

Cholesteatomas can cause pain, pressure, or fluid draining from the ear. They also can make your child feel dizzy; hear ringing or buzzing; or not hear as well as usual.

• Give your child any prescribed medicines as directed by the health care provider.
• Your health care provider may recommend acetaminophen (such as Tylenol® or a store brand) OR ibuprofen (such as Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand) for pain. Follow the directions that come with the medicine for how much to give and how often to give it.
• Go to all follow-up visits with the hearing specialist (audiologist) and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.

Your child has:

• new or worsening ear pain, trouble hearing, or ringing in the ear
• fluid draining from the ear
• dizziness
• problems moving the face muscles

What causes a cholesteatoma? Most cholesteatomas happen in kids who have had several ear infections. Sometimes, a child is born with a cholesteatoma. It can grow for years without causing any symptoms. Children with cleft palate, craniofacial disorders, or genetic problems (like Down syndrome) are more likely to get cholesteatomas.

How is a cholesteatoma treated? A cholesteatoma is removed with surgery. More than one surgery might be needed to remove a large cholesteatoma and repair the hearing bones.

Can a cholesteatoma grow back? Cholesteatomas can grow back. That’s why it’s important to see your ENT doctor and audiologist regularly after surgery.