Earlobe creases

Considerations:
The earlobe in children and young adults is normally smooth. Creases are seldom seen, but when present, they are sometimes associated with rare inherited syndromes.

Some studies show that people with earlobe creases have a higher rate of heart attack than other people.

Common Causes:
All the causes of earlobe creases are rare disorders. One of these is called Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome .

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:
(This finding is usually discovered on a well-child examination.)

What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting this symptom in detail may include:
  • When did you first notice the earlobe creases?
  • What other symptoms or abnormalities have you also noticed?

A physical examination will be performed to determine if there are other abnormalities present that may indicate the presence of a rare disorder.

Diagnostic tests:
If other symptoms or abnormalities are noted, diagnostic tests may be performed. The specific test will depend on the disorder that is suspected.

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to earlobe creases to your personal medical record.


Creases in the earlobes have been associated with various conditions and diseases. In children, they may be associated with genetic diseases. In adults, there is some association with hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) and increased risk for heart attacks.