Rare malignant tumor originating in the ceruminous (wax-generating) glands of the external auditory canal, usually in middle-aged adults. Characterized by recurring episodes of otalgia (ear pain), otorrhea (discharge), hearing loss, tinnitus, ear mass or lesion, and facial nerve paralysis.

Management includes surgical excision to the extent possible within the ear structure. Other treatments include radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Prognosis is poor where metastasis has occurred, particularly to brain, lung, or liver, or in the case of residual or recurrence of disease.