-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
eyes/ears/nose/throat
otitis externa
diagnoses
definition and etiology
definition: Infection or inflammation of the ear canal. Also called "swimmer's ear".
etiology: The infection may be localized or generalized, and is more common during the summer months. Micro-organisms commonly associated with otitis externa include Pseudomonas, E. coli, Proteus vulgaris and Staphylococcus aureus. Factors involved include frequent ear wetness; trauma to the canal (including hearty use of cotton buds); excessive and impacted cerumen; and irritating substances getting in the canal, such as hair dye.
signs and symptoms
Itching.
Pain: with pulling the ear lobe or pushing in the tragus.
Offensive discharge from the ear.
Furuncle.
Canal is hyperemic, swollen and visibly full of infectious matter.
lab findings:
possibly (+) staining of causative organism
culture discharge
course and prognosis
A furuncle should be allowed to suppurate naturally. Otherwise, conventional treatment consists of topical antibiotics and corticosteroids. OE usually resolves easily as long as causative agents are removed.
differential diagnosis
Otitis media.
Foreign body in the ear.
footnotes