Rare oto-tricho-tussia/tinnitus: A case report.

KEY CLINICAL MESSAGE

Oto-tricho is associated with the symptoms of gag reflex and non-neuropathic tinnitus, which can be treated by removing the hair and its follicle.

ABSTRACT

Oto-tricho refers to a disorder of hair growth in the tympanic membrane (TM). In its early stages, it can manifest as symptoms such as tinnitus, chronic pain, cough, and nausea. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to tympanosclerosis, TM micro-perforation, and hearing loss. In this report, we present a case study of a 33-year-old male with hair and follicle growth observed on the left TM. Over the course of the past year, the patient experienced various symptoms including tinnitus, dry cough, and chronic pain. An examination with an otoscope revealed the presence of oto-tricho-tussia/tinnitus. To address the issue, the hair and hair follicles were surgically removed using direct visual guidance. Subsequent follow-up was conducted over a period of 5 months, during which no pain or infection was observed at the site of the TM. The patient's previous symptoms were successfully resolved. Furthermore, further observation of the TM revealed no evidence of hair follicles or hair regrowth.