ceruminózní

Ceruminózní is a Czech term meaning 'relating to cerumen' or 'ceruminous'. In medical usage, it describes the properties, processes or structures associated with cerumen (earwax) and with the ceruminous glands of the external auditory canal. Cerumen is a waxy secretion produced by these glands, typically in combination with sebaceous glands, and plays a role in ear health.

Ceruminous glands are specialized sweat glands located in the skin of the external ear canal. Cerumen consists of secretions from these glands mixed with desquamated epithelial cells and debris. There are two broad cerumen phenotypes: dry and wet, a difference largely determined by genetics (notably ABCC11). Dry cerumen is crumbly and light-colored; wet cerumen is sticky and brownish.

Functions include protection of the ear canal: cerumen traps dust and microorganisms, lubricates the canal, and has antimicrobial properties due to lipids and acidic pH. The waxy substance gradually migrates outward, helping to clean the canal without external intervention.

Clinically, cerumen can become impacted, causing fullness, reduced hearing, or tinnitus. Management depends on symptoms: softening drops and careful removal by a clinician are common; routine use of cotton swabs is discouraged because it can push cerumen deeper or injure the canal. Persistent impaction may require suction or irrigation.