Perichondritis Auricularis Following Piercing: A Case Report

Auricular perichondritis is an uncommon but potentially serious complication of ear piercing, particularly when the cartilaginous part of the auricle is involved. It is most often caused by bacterial infection, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa being the predominant pathogen, and may lead to cartilage necrosis and permanent deformity if not promptly treated. We report the case of a patient who developed auricular perichondritis following ear piercing, presenting with painful swelling, erythema, and tenderness of the pinna while sparing the lobule. Clinical diagnosis was supported by physical examination, and management consisted of early systemic antibiotic therapy combined with local care, leading to a favorable outcome. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of auricular perichondritis, appropriate antimicrobial treatment, and awareness of piercing-related risks to prevent functional and cosmetic sequelae.