Otitis Externa Flashcards
What is malignant otitis externa?
osteomyelitis of the bone surrounding the ear canal that can progress to the skull and meninges
What is the presentation of malignant otitis externa?
extreme pain and headache slightly red ear granulation tissue at the bone - cartilage junction of the ear canal exposed bone at the ear canal facial nerve palsy
How is malignant OE diagnosed?
plasma viscosity
C reactive protein
biopsy
imaging
What bacteria usually causes malignant OE?
pseudomonas aeruginosa
Why is pseudomonas aeruginosa a problem?
normally need IV form
What are the risk factors of malignant OE?
diabetes
radiotherapy to the head and neck
What is Otitis Externa?
inflammation of the skin of the outer ear canal
How does OE present?
redness and swelling of the skin and ear canal itchy sore painful discharge increased earwax
What causes OE?
cotton buds
water
skin conditions
What pathogen are swimmers prone to getting?
pseudomonas aeruginosa
What are the bacterial causes of OE?
pseudomonas aeruginosa
staph aureus
proteus
What are the fungal causes of OE?
aspergillius niger
candida albicans
What is the management of OE?
swab to microbiology
antimicrobial for unresponsive/severe cases
topical clotrimazole for aspergillus niger
gentamicin drops
