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Conclusions: Osteomas of the incus were found in surprisingly high numbers in ancient and modern populations. The coexistence of osteoma formation and unique vascularization on the medial surface of the incus alludes to a relationship between the two findings., Objective: Osteomas involving the middle ear ossicles are rare. The aim of this study was to compare the incudal pathology of ancient and recent periods using the recent literature., Material and Methods: Pathologies encountered in 1170 human incudes belonging to different populations from ancient and recent periods were studied. Most of the ossicles were found in the middle ear of dry skulls or during dissection. The observations were done with a binocular microscope and a Nikon Profile Projector., Results: A total of 47 incudes (4.01%) presented with a variety of pathologies, osteomas being found in 19 cases (1.62%). The osteomas were noted only on the medial surface of the incus. Other findings, including prominent erosions, multiple nutrient foramina and pitting, were also found on the medial side of the incus. The incidence of osteoma was found to be more common in ancient populations (1.88%) and most prevalent among Bedouins (4.55%).

Recent advances in diagnosis and surgical therapy of glomus tumors of the temporal bone have been made. These advances make it possible for surgeons to benefit patients affected by this locally aggressive and morbid tumor. More sensitive diagnostic modalities and a physician alertness make early surgical cure a possibility. Careful planning and observation of basic surgical principles help to minimize morbidity and improve functional results.

Giant cell lesions are rare in the temporal bone. A review of world literature reveals twenty-three reported cases. Histopathologic differentiation has been difficult in the past; several tumors of bone which are characterized by multinucleated giant cells have been grouped together under the term "giant cell tumor." In the temporal bone, true giant cell tumor of bone, osteoclastoma, should be differentiated from the less aggressive reparative granuloma. The clinical course of these two lesions can be greatly different. Two additional cases of giant cell reparative granuloma are added to the literature. In addition, a tabulation is presented of signs, symptoms, treatment, and follow-up in the cases reported in the literature. Surgical excision is recommended when possible.