Blue Eardrum Due to Cholesterin Granuloma

Abstract

A case of idiopathic blue eardrum is presented. In agreement with the data found in the literature, it was established that in the background of this phenomenon stands a cholesterin granuloma of the mastoid cell system.

The cholesterin granuloma arises owing to a chronic inflammation. The process is always sterile. The granuloma arises in isolation from the outer world. It is possible that the negative pressure and mitigated inflammation, which occur in the tympanal and mastoidal cavities, cause a serum effusion. In the course of years this continuously developing serum becomes solid. Its cholesterin content increases to such an extent that cholesterin crystals are deposited in it. These cholesterin crystals bring about a granulation in the mucous membrane. This granuloma can secrete a fluid rich in cholesterin as well.