RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Approach to otitis externa
JF Canadian Family Physician
JO Can Fam Physician
FD The College of Family Physicians of Canada
SP 617
OP 623
DO 10.46747/cfp.7010617
VO 70
IS 10
A1 Ellis, Janjulee
A1 De La Lis, Allison
A1 Rosen, Emily
A1 Simpson, Matthew T.W.
A1 Beyea, Michael M.
A1 Beyea, Jason A.
YR 2024
UL http://www.cfp.ca/content/70/10/617.abstract
AB Objective To provide family physicians with a practical evidence-based approach to management of otitis externa.Sources of information The approach described is based on MEDLINE and PubMed literature published between 1993 and 2023.Main message Otitis externa is diffuse inflammation of the external auditory canal and typically occurs from moisture exposure and trauma. Management focuses on eliminating infection, pain management, education, and preventing recurrence. The primary treatment of uncomplicated otitis externa is topical. Complicated presentations may require additional systemic therapy.Conclusion History taking and physical examination can help differentiate among acute, chronic, and necrotizing otitis externa. At-risk populations, typically those who are immunosuppressed, are more likely to develop necrotizing otitis externa and should be carefully monitored.