Traumatic Porencephalic Cysts of the Ear Canal: Diagnosis and Therapy

Porencephalic cysts of the ear canal are a late but unusual complication of temporal bone fractures in which the dura is torn. Since these cysts can develop as late as two and one‐half years after the initial fracture and lead to rupture and meningitis, this complication has potentially serious consequences for the patient. We describe three patients with porencephalic cysts of the ear canal, illustrate the pathogenesis of this lesion, and review the literature. Awareness of these lesions by the head and neck surgeon can lead to prompt diagnosis and treatment in this potentially fatal disorder.