Erkrankungen der Ohren. Teil 2. Chondrodermatitis nodularis chronica helicis (Winkler)

Chondrodermatitis nodularis chronica helicis was first described by the Swiss dermatologist Max Winkler (1875-1952). It is also described as a painful ear papule or clavus helicis and is a relatively frequent chronic, focally ulcerating affection of the outer ear. The skin lesions present are 3-8 mm in diameter sized inflamed reddish papules, often with a central crust, mostly localized on the auricle. Treatment comprises the complete excision of the painful papules deep into the healthy tissue, whereas the underlying necrotic cartilage can easily be removed mechanically with a curette, a sharp spoon or with a electro-cauter. Alternatively a therapy with the argon- or CO 2 laser can be considered. Independent of the treatment regimen used, there is a tendency to recurrences.