Otitis Externa Flashcards
1
Q
ESSENCE
A
Inflammation of skin in external ear canal
Also called swimmers ear
2
Q
AETIOLOGY
A
- Bacterial infection
- Fungal infection
- Eczema
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Contact dermatitis
3
Q
AETIOLOGY
Most common bacterial causes
A
- Pseudonomas aeruginosa
- Staphlococcus aureus
4
Q
PRESENTATION
Symptoms
A
- Ear pain
- Discharge
- Itchiness
- Conductive hearing loss (if ear becomes blocked)
5
Q
PRESENTATION
Signs
A
- Erythema and swelling
- Tenderness
- Pus or discharge
- Lymphadenopathy
6
Q
INVESTIGATIONS
First line
A
- Otoscopy for diagnosis
- Maybe ear swab for culturing but usually not required
7
Q
MANAGEMENT
If mild
A
Acetic acid 2% (OTC as EarCalm)
8
Q
MANAGEMENT
Moderate
A
- Topical antibiotic and steroid such as
- Neomycin, dexamethasone and acetic acid (otomize spray)
- Neomycin and betamethasone
- Gentamicin and hydrocortisone
- Ciprofloxacin and dexamethasone
9
Q
MANAGEMENT
What must be checked before giving aminoglycosides
A
There is no perforation, as they are ototoxic so rarely can cause hearing loss if get past tympanic membrane
10
Q
MANAGEMENT
Severe or systemic symptoms
A
May need oral antibiotics (flucloxacillin or clarithromycin)
11
Q
MANAGEMENT
Medication for fungal infection
A
Clotimazole ear drops
