| Description |
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Physical examination reveals a soft cystic mass along the ear canal wall. Cysts may be differentiated from exostoses and osteomas by palpation; epidermal cysts are soft to the touch, whereas exostoses and osteomas are hard due to the bone within. When closely inspected, they show a thin epithelial covering, and the keratin within creates a pearly appearance. If ruptured, a white cheesy material can be expressed. A larger inclusion cyst is seen in this ear canal at the five o'clock position. Notice the thin epithelial covering and the pearly appearance of the keratin within. |
