Auricular Signs of Severe Pulmonary Disease in an Adolescent

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

The auricular acupuncturist frequently uses physical changes in the auricle, whether visible or not, in the diagnosis as well as the treatment of many maladies. However, the practice of auricular inspection in nonauricular disease processes is not common in Western medical practice.

Objective:

To describe a case of significant physical auricular change correlated with severe pulmonary disease.

Patient:

A 14-year-old previously healthy boy with worsening respiratory status secondary to a new diagnosis of Wegener granulomatosis. Physical examination revealed large blood-filled bullae in the lung distribution of the lower conchae.

Main Outcome Measure:

Change in auricular appearance before and immediately after plasmapheresis.

Results:

Immediately after plasmapheresis, there was notably significant improvement in auricular appearance, with near disappearance of the bullae.

Conclusions:

Inspection of the auricle in patients with significant systemic disease may provide insight into the Western diagnosis and treatment of these patients. Further study of patients with concomitant auricular changes and pulmonary disease may better define the suspected auricular signs of pulmonary or systemic disease.