Nodular fasciitis of the external auditory canal.

PROBLEM: Nodular fasciitis (NF) is a reactive myofibroblastic proliferation that may be misdiagnosed as a sarcoma because of its rapid growth, rich cellularity, and mitotic activity. NF is uncommon in the auricular region. We describe a case of nodular fasciitis of the external auditory canal in an 8-year-old male. METHODOLOGY: An excisional biopsy was performed, and the pathologic examination was consistent with nodular fasciitis; however, the lesion recurred within a month requiring that a total excision be done. RESULTS: The patient is without recurrence 7 months after the total excision. CONCLUSIONS: Because its histologic features closely mimick a malignant lesion, NF must be considered in the differential diagnosis of a mass originating from the external auditory canal to avoid overly aggressive and functionally debilitating treatment.