Microtia is characterized by what condition of the outer ear?

Microtia is a congenital condition characterized by the abnormally small size of the pinna, which is the outer part of the ear. Individuals with microtia may have a pinna that is not fully developed, leading to its reduced size and altered shape. This condition can vary in severity and can affect one ear (unilateral) or both ears (bilateral).

Understanding microtia leads to recognizing its implications for hearing, as the structure of the outer ear is crucial for gathering sound and conveying it to the inner ear. In some cases, individuals with microtia may experience hearing loss, which could necessitate the use of hearing aids or other interventions.

The other options refer to conditions that do not accurately describe microtia. A presence of a normal pinna would indicate no issues, while an abnormally large pinna does not relate to microtia, which specifically denotes a smaller pinna size. The absence of the pinna would describe anotia, a separate condition. Thus, microtia specifically highlights the abnormally small size of the pinna, making it the correct answer.