5.3 Otitis externa Flashcards
What is the common name for acute otitis externa
swimmers ear
What is the pathophys behind OE
inflam of external ear canal commonly associated with swimming
Why is swimming a trigger to cause OE
prolonged wetness of ear canal leads to microscopic fissues –> create portal of entry for infecting organisms
Other risk factors for AOE include: trauma, a foreign body in the ear, using a hearing aid, certain dermatological conditions, chronic otorrhea, wearing tight head scarves and being immunocompromised.
What condition can ear piercing lead to
infection of the pinna (auricle)
What are the 4 common symptoms of OE
- otalgia (ear pain)
- itching
- fullness
- hearing loss
can also have pain with chewing
Do all cases of OE have hearing loss
no
What is a distinguishing sign of AOE from acute otitis media with otorrhea
tenderness of the tragus when pushed and of the pinna when pulled in AOE.
These signs are classically described as out of proportion to the degree of inflammation observed
what is the onset of OE
rapid- within 48 hrs
On exam what does the canal look like
inflammed- can get some cellulitis, redness
What are the two most commonly isolated organisms that cause OE
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- Staphylococcus aureus
Are swabs necessary for culture for OE
no
will show normal flora
What is first line therapy for mild-mod acute OE
topical abx +/- topical steroids for 7-10 days
More severe cases should be managed with systemic antibiotics that cover S aureus and P aeruginosa.
What is first line for pain control associated with acute OE
tylenol, NSAIDs
topical steroids alone arent enough for pain control
When is clinical response evident after therapy initation for acute OE
48-72 hours
full response can take up to six days in patients treated with antibiotic and steroid drops
Is ear candling safe
no- can be harmful and doesnt help OE
ear candling is an alternative medicine practice that involves placing a lit, hollow candle in the ear canal to treat a variety of conditions: excess ear wax, earaches, sinus infections, ringing in the ears, and sinus pressure.
