Capillary Hemangioma of the Middle Ear and External Auditory Canal Causing Profound Hearing Loss: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Capillary hemangiomas are benign vascular tumors relatively common in the head and neck region but extremely rare in the middle ear (ME) and external auditory canal (EAC). This case report demonstrates progressive profound hearing loss associated with a capillary hemangioma of the ME and EAC observed over a 17-year period. A 62-year-old man presented with right-sided otorrhea and progressive hearing disturbance. Otoscopic examination revealed a reddish polypoid mass filling the EAC. Histopathological examination confirmed the lesion as a capillary hemangioma. Preoperative embolization was performed to minimize intraoperative bleeding, followed by tumor removal via a transmastoid approach. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging after 1 year showed no evidence of recurrence; the patient remained free of otorrhea and otalgia. Although capillary hemangioma of the ME and EAC is rare, it should be recognized as a potential cause of progressive, irreversible hearing loss if left untreated. Early recognition through appropriate imaging and timely surgical management are essential for preservation of residual hearing.