Final answer:
Perichondritis is the inflammation of the tissue surrounding the ear's cartilage, often due to an infection, leading to the cauliflower-like deformation known as cauliflower ear.
Step-by-step explanation:
The inflammation of the tissue surrounding the cartilage of the external ear, which may lead to the deformity known as "cauliflower ear", is referred to as perichondritis. Perichondritis is a serious condition that occurs when an injury to the area around the cartilage is followed by infection that leads to inflammation. Specific bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa often cause this condition.
When the region around the ear cartilage becomes inflamed, it can lead to a change in the appearance of the ear, resulting in an effect not unlike the uneven, lumpy appearance of a cauliflower. Such changes can only be corrected through surgery. As such, prompt treatment of any ear injuries and potential infections is extremely important to prevent the occurrence of cauliflower ear.
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