Quick Facts
Topic Resources
What is perichondritis?
Perichondritis is an infection around the cartilage of your ear. Cartilage is the stiff but flexible material that gives your ear its shape.
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Perichondritis is usually caused by an injury, piercing, burn, or bite
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If you have diabetes or a weak immune system you’re more likely to get perichondritis
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Your ear will get red, painful, and swollen
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Pus may build up under the skin of your ear
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Doctors will give you antibiotics and, if needed, make a small cut to let any pus out of your ear
