The migration theory of cholesteatoma formation. Some experimental observations.

The migration theory of cholesteatoma formation considers that stratified squamous epithelium from the external auditory meatus migrates into the middle ear, giving rise to cholesteatoma. To test the ability of squamous epithelium to migrate in this manner, 73 stains were placed in relation to 23 chronic perforations. In no instance did epithelium migrate into the middle ear cleft. The limitations of the migration theory are discussed.