Weathering nodules

LAST UPDATED: Nov 19, 2021

Introduction

Weathering nodules are benign lesions of the ear, which are relatively common, especially in older men who have spent a lot of time outdoors.

This chapter is set out as follows:

Aetiology
History
Clinical findings
Images
Management

Aetiology

While the pathogenesis of weathering nodules remains unclear, there is an association with age and outdoor occupations / hobbies leading to ‘weathering’ of the ear either through chronic UV exposure and / or cold damage

History

More common in elderly men
Lesions tend to be asymptomatic as opposed to lesions of chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis, which cause significant discomfort when laid on at night

Clinical findings

Often bilateral
White or skin-coloured nodules measuring 2-3 mm in diameter running along the rim of the ear producing a scalloped appearance of the helix

Clinical Images

Please refer to notes on image rights at bottom of the page with regards to individual image ownership.

Management

Patients can be reassured and given advice on UV protection
No treatment is required

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Image Rights - The PCDS would like to thank Dermatoweb, DermQuest (Galderma), and others who have contributed images. All named individuals and organisations maintain copyright for the relevant images.