Benign osteitis of the external auditory meatus.

Benign osteitis of the external auditory canal is a distinct clinical entity characterized by localized ulceration in the skin of the floor of the bony external auditory meatus with underlying osteitis and sequestration of the underlying tympanic bone. Consideration of clinical and pathological data suggests that continued self-inflicted minor trauma is an etiological factor in at least some cases. The purpose of this paper is to review benign osteitis of the external auditory canal, presenting further clinical documentation and to offer etiological suggestions based upon clinical, pathological and experimental observations. The benign nature of this condition is emphasized.