In pursuit of ceruminolytic agents: A study of earwax composition

Objective: To assess the protein and simple sugar content of earwax in pursuit of better ceruminolytic agents. Study Design: Collected earwax specimens were tested in several media for dissolution before being analyzed for amino acid and carbohydrate content. Patients: The samples were obtained from eight random patients requiring ear plug removal. Results: The amino acid composition differs considerably from hair and stratum corneum of glabrous skin. Sugar analysis revealed high levels of galactosamine and galactose. Conclusions: This analysis of proteins and carbohydrates further characterizes earwax. Future ceruminolytic agents must dissolve lipid, keratin, and a monolayer of lipid covalently bound to the epidermal cells, which encourages cellular aggregation.