ENT Flashcards
1
Q
What can cause the inflammation in otitis externa? (5)
A
- bacterial infection
- fungal infection
- eczema
- seborrhoeic dermatitis
- contact dermatitis
2
Q
What can predispose someone to otitis externa? (3)
A
- swimming
- trauma (cotton buds, earplugs)
- removal of ear wax (wax protects against infection)
3
Q
What are the two most common bacterial causes of otitis externa?
A
- pseudomonas aeruginosa
- staphylococcus aureus
4
Q
How is mild otitis externa treated?
A
acetic acid 2% (OTC as EarCalm) - has antifungal and antibacterial effects
5
Q
How is moderate otitis externa treated?
A
topical antibiotic and steroid - e.g. neomycin, dexamethasone and acetic acid (Otomize spray)
6
Q
What must you exclude before prescribing aminoglycosides (neomycin etc) for ear infections?
A
perforated tympanic membrane - aminoglycosides are potentially ototoxic and can in rare cases cause hearing loss
7
Q
Tx for fungal otitis externa?
A
clotrimazole ear drops
8
Q
A
