[Otitis externa and cerumen obturans]

Abstract

Otitis externa and cerumen obturans are two of the most frequently encountered disturbances in the external auditory canal. Both conditions can lead to hearing loss due to reduced sound transmission. Other symptoms include ear pressure, pain and secretion. Acute otitis externa occurs frequently during the swimming season. The main symptoms are local pain and secretion. Treatment consists of careful and frequent cleaning and application of topical medication to the outer ear canal and prescription of medication against pain. Systemic antibiotics are only rarely necessary and are indicated if perichondritis or lymphadenitis are present. Chronic otitis externa is often caused by eczema of the outer ear canal. Allergies, systemic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, and manipulation by the patient must be ruled out. Therapy includes the application of topical steroid solutions. The natural pH of the skin can be reestablished by use of diluted acetic acid solutions. Blockage of the outer ear canal by cerumen [cerumen obturans] can bring the patient to the office because of sudden hearing loss. After cleaning of the ear canal, a screening hearing test should be performed to assure that the problem has been resolved.