Fibrous Tissue Abnormalities – Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis

Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis (CNH) is a very common skin condition I encounter in both my The Woodlands dermatology and Conroe dermatology offices.  Clinically, CNH appears as a tender red inflamed papule on the helix of the ear.  CNH is a benign condition but can cause significant pain and discomfort.  Typically, CNH appears on the ear that a patient favors when sleeping or speaking on the phone due to persistent pressure on the cartilage in the ear.  Treatment involves intralesional kenalog injections or excision of the inflamed cartilage.