A 66-year-old woman goes to the emergency department for evaluation of a painful left ear. She was evaluated one week ago for her symptoms by her primary care physician, who prescribed otic ofloxacin drops. The patient has been taking her medication as prescribed without relief of symptoms and now has worsening discharge from the ear and pain with chewing. Medical history is notable for hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and insulin-dependent diabetes. The patient's temperature is 38.7°C (101.7°F), pulse is 110/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 168/75 mmHg. Physical examination reveals the following finding: Image reproduced from Wikimedia Commons Which of the following pathogens is most likely responsible for this patient’s condition?

Otitis externa

Foundational SciencesPathologyNervous system and special sensesDisorders of the earInfectious and inflammatory disorders of the ear

Organ SystemsNervous system and special sensesPathologyDisorders of the earInfectious and inflammatory disorders of the ear

Definitions & Key takeaways

Otitis externa (also called swimmer's ear) is an inflammation of the outer ear and ear canal, commonly caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus bacterial infections. People with Otitis externa can present with ear pain and itchiness, ear canal swelling, impaired hearing, and purulent drainage from the ear. Treatment involves pain management, aural toilet, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics.

Otitis externa

Definitions & Key takeaways

No notes for this video yet

Ask Osmosis AI

Try the full Osmosis experience

Related

Up next

MPAN 690 Week 3 - Eyes, Ears, Nose & Throat