The American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Foundation has released the first comprehensive clinical guidelines for the assessment, management, and treatment of impacted earwax (cerumen). Although earwax impaction is common and carries significant health care implications, Italy lacks published epidemiological data on the condition.
In Italy, management of earwax impaction is typically limited to otolaryngologists and otologists, unlike in many other countries where general practitioners and nurses also handle diagnosis and treatment. This limited involvement may reduce complications but leads to higher public health costs due to specialist consultations.
After reviewing the definition, epidemiology, genetics, infection links, and treatment options related to cerumen impaction, the authors analyzed ENT consultations at their hospital between January 1 and December 31, 2008. They found that earwax-related consultations made up 12.8% of all ENT visits during that period.
The debate over whether cerumen protects the ear from microbes or promotes their growth is ongoing. Research has also identified links between cerumen and systemic conditions such as psoriasis, cystic fibrosis, alkaptonuria, Parkinson’s disease, breast cancer, and arteriosclerosis.
Lastly, the authors explore the impact of cerumen on industrial audiometry, noting challenges in managing earwax in occupational settings and its effect on hearing acuity. Their study reports a notable improvement in hearing thresholds among industrial workers exposed to noise after earwax removal.