Otitis Externa Flashcards
What is otitis externa?
Inflammation/infection of the external ear canal
What are the symptoms of otitis externa?
Ear pain
+/- ear discharge
Ear canal swelling
What are risk factors for developing otitis externa?
Ear canal obstruction
High humidity
Swimming
Local trauma
What is the pathophysiology of otitis externa?
Breakdown of skin integrity + acidic pH of ear canal - causes inflammation
Predisposes for infection
What investigations need to be done for suspected otitis externa?
Otoscopy
- visualise tympanic membrane
- ensure no perforation or otitis media
How is otitis externa managed?
7-10 days of ciprofloxacin ear drops
What advice is given to patients with otitis externa?
Do ear drops lying down - remain in that position for at least 5 minutes
Minimise exposing ear to water during infections
Avoid using cotton buds
What is furunculosis?
Localised otitis externa – infection in the hair follicles
What is malignant otitis externa?
Extension of otitis externa into mastoid and temporal bones
Who does malignant otitis externa commonly effect?
Elderly diabetic patients
Immunocompromised patients
How is malignant otitis externa managed?
IV antibiotics
