Otitis Externa

Question 1

Who suffers from Otitis Externa

Answer 1

It occurs in all age groups but it’s more common in those aged 7-12years

Question 2

Cause of Otitis Externa

Answer 2

Prolonged exposure to moisture, humid environments and water swimming, skin infections

Question 3

Clinical Features of Otitis Externa

Answer 3

Itching and irritation
Pain
Ear discharge that is not mucopurulent
On examination, the ear canal or external ear or both appear re, swollen or eczematous

Question 4

State the most likely cause of ear carnal symptoms

Answer 4

Otitis media

Question 5

What is the likely cause of Ear canal symptoms

Answer 5

Otitis externa caused by infection or trauma

Question 6

Unlikely Causes of ear canal symptoms

Answer 6

Dermatitis

Question 7

Very unlikely cause of Ear canal infection

Answer 7

Perichondritis, malignacy

Question 8

Specific Questions to ask

Answer 8

Age- common in 7- 12years
Does the child swim?
Suffer from skin infection?
PMH
Family Hx
Dhx

Symptom presentation- itch, irritation and pain
Discharge- not mucopurulent, only present in otitis external

Systemic Symptoms- No systemic Symptoms present in externa, common in otitis media

Question 9

When to refer?

Answer 9

Generalised inflammation of the pinna
Mucopurulent discharge
Systemically unwell
Impaired hearing in children mot associated with ear wax

Question 10

Treatment of Otitis externa

Answer 10

Acetic acid >12years of age

Give Analgesia for pain or choline salicylate for over 1year old and oral antihistamines for itching