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External auditory exostosis among surfers: a comprehensive and systematic review

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Abstract

Objective

External auditive exostosis (EAE), known as surfer’s ear, is a temporal bone outgrowth resulting from ear exposure to cold air and water. This review aims to shed light on the prevalence of EAE among worldwide surfers.

Methods

By a thorough retrieval of the PubMed, we found all original investigations performed on EAE among suffers. The retrieval time was from the construction of the database to December 2022. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) methodology checklist for assessing the quality of cross-sectional/prevalence study was performed.

Results

19 articles were selected involving 2997 surfers on whom 2032 presented EAE. The prevalence of EAE was ranged from 53 to 90% with a mean at 67.8%. 3 investigations were performed from USA, five from UK and Ireland, five from Australia and New Zealand and six from Japan and Europe.

Conclusion

Cold water exposure, combined with wind and prolonged surfing activity, contributes to the development of EAE. Symptoms range from mild discomfort to hearing loss and recurrent infections. Preventive measures, such as raising awareness and promoting the use of ear protection, are crucial. Further research is needed to improve prevention strategies and understand the underlying mechanisms of EAE.

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Abbreviations

EAE:

External auditory exostosis

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  1. Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France

    Alexandre Vallée

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AV had the original idea. AV performed the design. AV performed the statistical analyses and the interpretation. AV wrote the article. The author read and approved the final manuscript.

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Vallée, A. External auditory exostosis among surfers: a comprehensive and systematic review. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 281, 573–578 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00405-023-08258-5

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