Cauliflower ear is medically known as an auricular hematoma. The external ear is made of cartilage and it is the shape of the cartilage that gives the ear its distinctive shell-like shape. The cartilage is lined by perichondrium, a tight layer of connective tissue. Auricular hematoma/cauliflower ear occurs when the ear cartilage is injured (from a blow or other form of trauma). Trauma results in fluid or blood collecting between the perichondrium and the cartilage. This blood or fluid can become permanent and scarred, resulting in the appearance of cauliflower ear.