Cholesteatoma in children. An Egyptian overview.

There is a long-lasting debate concerning cholesteatoma in children. This retrospective epidemiological study includes 81 ears harboring cholesteatoma and treated surgically. All patients were Egyptian and were treated at Alazhar University Hospital, Cairo. Among this group 37 ears belonged to patients younger than 18 years old. To clarify comparison with adult patients, a system of classification based on certain anatomical criteria is proposed. Statistical analysis proved that cholesteatoma in children treated at Alazhar University Hospital differs significantly in two main aspects: it is associated with more pathological changes and is associated with higher morbidity. Additionally, patients younger than 12 years are at high risk for complications. A subgroup of adolescents with cholesteatoma is marginal and has disease representing the characteristics of both adults and younger children.