It may be accompanied by a fever and systemic manifestations of infection. Treatment requires parenteral antibiotics with coverage for Pseudomonas species, in addition to local care. These patients may require specialty consultation and hospitalization. Acute otitis externa may spread to the pinna, resulting in a chondritis, particularly in patients with newly pierced ears. Diabetic ketoacidosis will often be present in diabetics with this condition.
Surgical intervention is required occasionally for chronic otitis externa.
Resolution of eczematous otitis externa occurs with control of the primary skin condition. Improper use of cotton tipped applicator sticks simply packs cerumen into the canal and can cause trauma to the tympanic membrane. The patient with a FB will not improve until it is removed. Otitis externa with ear wick in place. Note discharge from canal and swelling of canal.