Bilateral idiopathic ossification of the auricles.

Petrification of the auricle is a recognized and distinct pathological entity. This involves ossificationorcalcification of the auricular cartilage resulting in hardening of the auricle which is clinically evident on palpation and can be confirmed through radiological imaging. The aetiology of this unusual phenomenon is varied and includes both local and systemic causes. Systemic conditions associated with this disorder include endocrine disorders like Addisons disease, acnmegaly and hypopituitarism, collagen disorders like sclerodermas and systemic diseases like alkaptonuria, gout and sarcoidosis. However, the more common causes of petrification are local in nature namely, trauma and frostbite. We report on a patient admitted to our hospital who was consequently found to have idiopathic bilateral auricular ossification.