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URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/imagepages/20015.htm
Perichondritis
Overview
Perichondritis is an infection of the skin and tissue surrounding the cartilage of the outer ear. This layer of tissue is called the perichondrium. Perichondritis is caused by injury to the ear, such as from an ear piercing or contact sports.
Review Date 4/1/2026
Updated by: Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Roy and Diana Vagelos Professor in Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, New York, NY. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
