Otitis externa

Last updated: Friday, 06, August, 2010
CausesAppropriate Tests

Ear swab may be indicated when infection is severe or recurrent or when simple therapeutic measures are not successful.

Acute

  • Staphylococcus aureus
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa

'Malignant' otitis externa 

Osteomyelitis of the petrous temporal bone, usually in patients with diabetes mellitus and often caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa: pus (ear swab) - microscopy and culture.

Bone biopsy, pus from operative debridement - microscopy and culture. Blood culture; FBC; glucose.