What serious complications can result from an untreated cholesteatoma?

An untreated cholesteatoma is a dangerous condition characterized by an ingrowth of skin that forms a cyst within the middle ear. Because this cyst enlarges progressively and erodes surrounding bone, it can eventually reach critical structures, leading to severe health consequences.1

If left neglected, the infected material within the cyst can cause the following serious complications:

• Neurological infections: The cyst may erode into the brain cavity, potentially resulting in meningitis or a brain abscess.1
• Facial nerve damage: Erosion can reach the nerve supplying the facial muscles, leading to paralysis of the face.1
• Inner ear damage: The infection can spread to the labyrinth of the inner ear, causing vertigo and potentially leading to total deafness.1

Due to the severity of these risks, it is ethically imperative to seek medical diagnosis and surgical intervention—such as a mastoidectomy or tympanoplasty—before the condition causes permanent harm.1