What condition is described as a cystic mass resulting from chronic otitis media?

A cholesteatoma is a cystic mass that forms in the middle ear as a result of chronic otitis media, which is an ongoing inflammation or infection of the middle ear. This condition occurs when skin cells and other waste material accumulate in the middle ear, creating a sac-like structure that can grow and potentially damage surrounding structures. Cholesteatomas can lead to complications such as hearing loss, infections, and even damage to the bones of the middle ear.

Chronic otitis media often results in negative pressure in the middle ear, leading to retraction of the eardrum and the formation of these cystic masses. It is important to recognize cholesteatomas due to the risks associated with them, including the possibility of eroding into surrounding tissues, which can affect both the ear and adjacent areas.

The other options refer to different conditions that do not involve the cystic mass formation resulting from chronic otitis media. Otitis externa involves inflammation of the outer ear canal; otitis media, while related, refers to the inflammation itself rather than a resulting cyst; labyrinthitis describes an inner ear condition affecting balance and hearing, but does not involve a cystic mass from chronic middle ear infections.