Main menu
Common skin conditions
NEWS
Check out what's new with DermNet
Read more
Quick links
This quiz will test your diagnostic skills in diagnosing lesions on the ear.
Accurate diagnosis of lesions on the ear requires a careful history, thorough skin examination in a good light, and sometimes a biopsy. Inflammatory and neoplastic conditions may appear similar, often presenting as scaly or ulcerated plaques or nodules.
For each of the ten cases, study the image(s) and then answer the questions. You can click on the image to view a larger version if required.
Each case should take approximately 2 minutes to complete. There is a list of suggested further reading material at the end of the quiz.
When you finish the quiz, you can download a certificate.
Make a diagnosis
Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis
Outline the clinical features
Chondrodermatitis nodularis chronica helicis (CNH) is very common. It presents as a painful chronic papule on the cartilaginous portion of the ear. There is often a central scab or erosion.
CNH appears to be due to localised pressure on protuberant cartilage during sleep.
What are the treatment options?
CNH often resolves if the pressure is removed (sleep on the other side and wear protective dressing). The skin and cartilage of persistent and severe lesions may be excised, but surgery results in recurrence in 20-35% of lesions.