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Earwax |
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Cerumen, commonly known as earwax, is a yellowish, waxy substance secreted in the ear canal of humans and many other mammals. It plays a vital role in the human ear canal, assisting in cleaning and lubrication, and also provides a degree of protection from bacteria, fungus, and insects.
A comprehensive review of the physiology and pathophysiology of cerumen can be found in Roeser and Ballachanda (1997). Excess or impacted cerumen can press against the eardrum and/or occlude the external auditory canal and impair hearing.
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