Sebaceous cysts are the most common cysts seen in the ear. They are bulging, sac-like collections of dead skin cells and oils produced by oil glands in the skin. They commonly occur behind the ear, within the ear canal, or on the scalp. The exact cause is unknown, but cysts may occur when oils are produced in a skin gland faster than they can be excreted out of the gland. If the cysts within the ear canal get infected, they are extremely painful. Benign bony tumors of the ear canal (exostoses and osteomas) may be caused by an overgrowth of bone. Repeated exposure to cold water may increase the risk of benign tumors of the ear canal. Tumors may grow large enough to block the ear canal, trap wax in the canal, and interfere with hearing.
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