Hearing loss may be noted. With delayed presentation, expect a foul-smelling discharge and other signs of infection. Insects may injure the ear while inside, scratching or stinging the canal or tympanic membrane. Causes A patient, caretaker, or sibling intentionally places an object in the ear canal and is unable to remove it. Insects may crawl or fly into an ear.
Physical exam is the main diagnostic tool.
Use an otoscope while retracting the pinna in a posterosuperior direction. A head mirror with a strong light source, operating otoscope, or operating microscope also may be used. Transport patient to a hospital quickly and have a practitioner examine the ear as soon as possible. Kill the insect before attempting to remove it. Irrigation is the simplest method of removal, provided the tympanic membrane is not perforated.