Definition

It is a localised form of otitis externa resulting from infection of a single hair follicle in hair bearing area of external auditory canal.

Etiology

•           Staphylococcus aureus is the most common organism.

•           Diabeties mellitus is predisposing factor

•           Clinical features

•           Severe earache and tenderness

•           Ear blockage

•           Scanty and sero-sanguinous ear discharge

•           Oedema and inflammation restricted to lateral segment of the canal

•           If the infection is advanced abscess may be seen to be pointing into the canal

•           Ear canal may be narrow

Management

A.  Pharmacological

1.   Analgecis

•           PAracetamol (Oral,IM)

Adults                      0.5-1gm every 4-6 hours upto maximum of 4 gms Children                                           10mg/kg 4-6 hours

•           Ibuprofen (Oral)

Adult                          400 mg 4-6 hrs

Children                    10mg/kg 8 hourly (6-1 2yrs)

2.   Antibiotics

•              Oral Flucloxacillin 500mg óhrlyfor 14 days

•              Topical treatment Nasal mupirocin

3.   Glycerol and ichthammol solution has a specific antistaphyloccal action.

4.   Aluminium acetate solution is an astringent as well as hygroscopic agent.

B.  Surgical

Incision and Drainage in case of abscess formation