Definition of Perichondritis:

Perichondritis is an infection of the skin and covering that surrounds cartilage, the thick tissue that forms the distinctive shape of the nose or ears. Perichondritis most often affects the external ear.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

All cartilage has a thin layer of tissue around it called the perichondrium. This covering helps provide nutrients to the cartilage. The most common bacteria causing perichondritis infection is Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Perichondritis is usually caused by injury to the ear due to ear surgery, ear piercing (especially piercing of the cartilage), or contact sports. Ear piercing through the cartilage is probably the most significant risk factor today.

Perichondritis may cause severe damage to the ear structure if it progresses to chondritis, a general infection of the cartilage.