Red ear syndrome

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Red Ear Syndrome (RES)[edit | edit source]

Depiction of Red Ear Syndrome (RES), showcasing the distinct redness of the external ear.

Red Ear Syndrome (RES) is a rare medical disorder of unknown origin. First described in the literature in 1994, RES is characterized predominantly by the redness of one or both external ears and is frequently accompanied by a sensation of burning or warmth.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary and most evident symptom of RES is:

  • Redness of the external ear(s): This can affect one or both ears and might be sporadic or persistent.
  • Burning sensation: Individuals with RES often report a burning or tingling feeling in the affected ear(s).

Additional symptoms may arise in some patients, and understanding the complete range of manifestations is an ongoing area of research.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

The precise cause of Red Ear Syndrome remains elusive and is termed as of "unknown etiology". Several theories suggest that it may be related to:


However, conclusive evidence linking RES to these conditions is yet to be established.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Given its rarity and lack of widely recognized diagnostic criteria, RES can be challenging to diagnose. A detailed patient history, along with a physical examination focusing on the ear and associated structures, is typically the first step. Imaging studies like MRI or CT scan might be employed to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The treatment of Red Ear Syndrome has historically been met with varied success. Several treatments have been tried, including:

  • Medications: Including analgesics, anticonvulsants, and calcium channel blockers.
  • Physical Therapy: Focusing on the neck and jaw can sometimes bring relief.
  • Nerve blocks: Administered to numb the area and provide temporary relief.

However, no single treatment has consistently shown effectiveness across all RES patients, making individualized care essential.

History[edit | edit source]

Red Ear Syndrome was first described in medical literature in 1994. Since then, awareness of the condition has grown, though its exact prevalence remains uncertain due to its rare nature and potential underdiagnosis.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  • Red Ear Syndrome: A Review. Journal of Neurology & Neuromedicine. [1].
  • Red Ear Syndrome. RareDiseases.org. [2].


Red ear syndrome Resources

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