Otitis externa is an acute or chronic inflammation of the skin of the external auditory canal and auricle.

The condition may be caused by bacterial/fungal infections, allergic/ toxic reactions or dermatologic conditions. The common bacterial are Pseudomonas, Proteus vulgaris, streptococci, and Staphylococcus aureus. Those caused by fungi are Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans. A common dermatologic condition is seborrhea or psoriasis (see Diagnostic Code: 7816 Psoriasis).

The condition is characterized by moderate to severe pain that is aggravated by manipulating the ear, clenching the teeth, opening the mouth, and chewing. Other complaints may include: fever; a foul smelling aural discharge; dryness, scaliness or serous discharge (regional cellulitis); itching; swelling; partial hearing loss; and a swollen external ear canal. There also may be a tender lymph node(or nodes) in front of the tragus, behind the ear or in the upper neck. When caused by a fungus the condition may be surprisingly asymptomatic with a black or gray blotting paper-like growth in the ear.

Tests may include otoscopy, microscopy examination, or culture and sensitivity tests.

Treatment may include systemic and/or topical antibiotics, hot compresses or heating pad and ear toilet. Fungal infections may be treated with exfoliative creams or ointments.

There may be little or no residual. However, persistent scaly skin and swelling may require long-term medical treatment.

Special Considerations

• None.

Notes

• None.