Practical guide to otitis externa

Otitis externa is a common condition in warm humid climates, hence the term tropical ear. It is more likely to occur in a population were swimming is a popular pastime.

This article discusses otitis externa in terms of the clinicopathological categorisation. Its aim is to provide practical advice for the diagnosis, office management and prevention of this condition.

The key elements to successful treatment of otitis externa are appropriate microbiological diagnosis and meticulous management.