Winkler's disease typically appears as an inflamed area with a small, firm bump on the cartilage of the outer ear.
Understanding Winkler's Disease
Winkler's disease is another name for Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis (CNH), a common, benign condition affecting the skin and cartilage of the outer ear. It was first described in 1915 by a dermatologist named Winkler, hence its alternate name.
Visual Characteristics
When looking at Winkler's disease, you will primarily observe the following features on the outer ear:
- A Small, Hard Bump (Nodule): This is the most distinctive feature. It's a localized, well-defined lump that feels firm to the touch. The size can vary but is generally small, often just a few millimeters in diameter.
- Inflammation: The area around and over the bump will show signs of inflammation. This often manifests as:
- Redness: The skin directly covering the nodule and the surrounding cartilage may appear red or discolored.
- Swelling: While the bump itself is hard, there might be slight swelling of the surrounding tissue due to inflammation.
- Location: The bump almost always forms on the helix or antihelix of the ear, which are the prominent cartilaginous rims of the outer ear. These are areas frequently subjected to pressure, such as from sleeping on one side, phone use, or wearing headphones.
- Texture: The surface of the bump may be smooth, but sometimes it can be slightly scaly or crusty.
Key Visual Features at a Glance
For a clearer understanding, here's a summary of what Winkler's disease looks like:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Lesion | A small, firm, hard bump or nodule |
| Location | Specifically on the cartilage of the outer ear (helix or antihelix) |
| Associated Skin | Inflamed, often appearing red or discolored over and around the bump |
| Feel | The bump is hard; the affected area is frequently tender or painful to touch |
| Size | Typically small, ranging from a few millimeters up to a centimeter in diameter |
In essence, it presents as a noticeable, often painful, localized lesion on the ear's cartilage, characterized by its hard, bumpy nature and surrounding inflammation.
