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Earlobe creases
Definition:
Earlobe creases are superficial lines in the otherwise smooth earlobe of a child or young adult. Considerations:
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The earlobes of children and young adults are normally smooth. Creases are sometimes associated with rare inherited syndromes.
Some studies have found that people with earlobe creases are at greater risk for heart attack than others. More recent research, however, seems to indicate that earlobe creases are more common in older people, and that age, not the presence of creases, accounts for this increased risk. Other genetic factors such as race and earlobe shape may also determine the presence of earlobe creasing and whether it appears in childhood or adulthood. Common Causes:
In children, earlobe creases are often associated with rare disorders. One of these is called Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome.
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