Cleft helix

What it means

A notched form of the helix of the ear. That is, a defect in the continuity of the helix, which may occur at any point along its length.

This may take the form of a sharp cleft or a less well-demarcated area. This should be distinguished from a Question-mark ear. If the defect or notch occurs at the junction of the superior and descending portions of the helix, it should be coded as Darwin notch of the helix.

Rare diseases that can present with this1

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category

Also called: Notched helix · Notching of the ear helix