Acar, B.Simsek, G. GulerOguztuzun, S.Zaim, M.Karasen, R. Murat2020-06-252020-06-252011closedAccess0022-2151https://doi.org/10.1017/S0022215110002161https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12587/5042Objective: This study aimed to demonstrate the histological and immunohistological features of skin biopsy specimens from patients complaining of isolated itching of the external auditory canal. Materials and methods: A prospective, case-control study was performed of 24 patients undergoing evaluation for contact dermatitis of the external auditory canal, and 24 controls. Skin biopsies were examined histologically by a single, blinded dermatopathologist, using light microscopy, to determine histopathological characteristics. The immunohistological presence of the antimicrobial peptides human beta-defensin-3 and LL-37 cathelicidin was also assessed. Findings for patients and controls were compared. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the degree of inflammation, comparing patients and controls (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the presence of spongiotic changes, comparing patients and controls (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the patients' skin biopsies did not show pronounced expression of human beta-defensin-3 or LL-37 cathelicidin. Conclusion: Histological and immunohistological examination of skin biopsies from cases of isolated itching of the external auditory canal did not support a diagnosis of dermatitis.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessExternal Auditory CanalOtitis ExternaPruritusArticle125322723010.1017/S00222151100021612-s2.0-7995744079021029502Q2WOS:000287938000002Q4