Otitis Externa

Question 1

what is it?

Answer 1

An infection of the skin of the ear canal
Infection can potentially spread to the pinna causing cellulitis
Most commonly bacterial causative organism

Question 2

who gets it?

Answer 2

water
cotton buds
skin conditions

Question 3

how does it present?

Answer 3

discharge THEN otalgia
discharge and itch
can be reduction in hearing as the ear canal closes
May be swelling of the pre-aricular or post-auricular lymph nodes which can be mistaken for mastoiditis
Often debris in the canal – needs removed
Tympanic membrane will be normal when visible
If severe – canal can be swollen and the TM not visible

Question 4

how is it managed?

Answer 4

Topical antibiotics
o Drops of dexamethosone or hydrocortisone acetate or dexamethasone or neomycin sulphate spray
If unresolved in 3-4 days then micro suction in ENT department is necessary