Surfer's ear, formally known as exostoses of the external auditory canal (EAC), occurs when bony growths develop in the external ear. These exostoses, which are benign painless growths of bone, are thought to be caused by repeated exposure to cold water and wind. It is termed surfer's ear owing to its high prevalence in surfers, but it is also seen in swimmers, divers and others frequently participating in cold water sports. Studies have shown EAC is more prevalent in people surfing in colder than warmer waters and additional time spent in cold water increases the risk of developing exostoses and their severity (Kroon, Lawson, Derkay, Hoffman, McCook, 2002).
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