ear infections

Question 1

what are two causative species of otitis external

Answer 1

P. aureginosa
S. aureus

Question 1

what is otitis externa

Answer 1

inflammation of external ear canal, in some cases can involve oedema

Question 2

are abx needed for otitis external

Answer 2

rarely

Question 3

management of otitis external

Answer 3

Consider cleaning external ear canal (dry swabbing, micro suction, irrigation techniques) if ear wax or debris blocking passage of topical medicine
This may require specialist referral

Solution of acetic acid 2% act as an astringent in the external ear canal by reducing pH and reducing bacterial and fungal cell growth
May be used to treat mild otitis externa and is comparable to anti infective combined with a CC
Efficacy is reduced if treatment extends beyond one week