EXAMINATION OF THE EXTERNAL EAR

Normal ears come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, likely because of the impact of racial and familial characteristics (phenotypes), the complexity of the embryologic development (malformations), and the potential for intrauterine factors such as oligohydramnios or intrauterine compression to produce distinct physical characteristics in normally formed tissues (deformations). This article will provide an overview of the embryologic origins of the external ear. Relevant terminology used to describe the ear will be reviewed, along with objective guidelines for the assessment of ear size, shape, and position. Clinical implications of abnormal findings will be discussed along with recommendations for referral and follow-up.