Otitis Externa

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Inflammation of the skin of the external auditory meatus and auricle.

Question 2

Causes

Answer 2

INFECTION
-Bacterial - P. aeruginosa, proteus, S. aereus*
-Fungal - Aspergillus nigers
(could be following antibiotic use)

SKIN DISEASES

• SLE
• Acne
• Psoriasis
• Atopic eczema
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Irritants

• Swimmer’s ear
• Cotton buds
• Hearing aids

Question 3

Symptoms

Answer 3

• Irritation (itching)
• Scanty discharge
• Pain* (jaw movement ++)
• Mild deafness

Question 4

Signs

Answer 4

• Meatal tenderness upon moving ear
• Moist dbris
• Erythematous canal

Question 5

Management

Answer 5

CONSERVATIVE

• Microsuction of debris
• Advise not get wet

MEDICAL
-Topical antibiotic drops
(sofradex/Gentasone)
-Ciprofloxacin drops if concerned about the ear
-Topica steroids (betamethasone/prednisolone)