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Cartilage Growth on Anti-tragus (Just Above Ear Lobe)

Hi, this morning I noticed the piece of cartilage above one of my ear lobes protruding, pointy, unusually large and red. (It's apparently called the anti-tragus.) It's larger than the anti-tragus on the other side, doesn't itch or hurt, but is very unsightly. Is this something that might go away on its own? Anything I can do to help it go back down to its normal size? Or, is this symptomatic of something I should be concerned about?
Thank you, in advance!


This discussion is related to Strange ear cartilage growth.
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351246 tn?1379682132
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
A dermatologist should be the first choice.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Thanks to you both for your comments. I've never pierced the anti-tragus -- or anything but my little lobes!

Doctor Nee, what kind of doctor should I consult about this (besides my GP)? (Will it necessarily grow larger? Might it go away on its own?)

Maddie, thanks for sharing your story and congrats on your success!

Best wishes,
Sophie

Helpful - 0
351246 tn?1379682132
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi
Welcome to the MedHelp forum!
Yes, if you have pierced the anti-tragus then it can be a keloid. It can also be a cartilage tumor either benign (Chondroma) or malignant (chondrosarcoma). Since it is red, it can also be a boil.  Please consult a doctor for further examination.
It is difficult to comment beyond this at this stage. Take care!
Helpful - 0
1329875 tn?1275337998
Sounds like it could be a keloid. Keloids are benign so if it is one it's nothing to worry about really. They are quite common with cartilage piercings as they are an overgrowth of tissue which appears at the site of a wound. I had one one on a cartilage piercing once, a friend of mine explained what it was to me. She told me that generally they don't go away and most don't really grow big. Upon hearing that, I worried and took out my cartilage piercing and within a couple of months it was gone. I now have a little bit of scarring but that's obviously to be expected.
Good luck!
Helpful - 0
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