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Another hazard of ear syringing: malignant external otitis
G R Ford1, R G Courteney-Harris
1ENT Department, Hospital for Sick Children, London.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|September 1, 1990
Summary
Malignant external otitis, a severe ear infection, can affect healthy individuals after procedures like ear syringing. Oral ciprofloxacin effectively treated this infection in a 72-year-old man, leading to complete resolution.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Malignant external otitis (MEO) is a rare, aggressive infection typically seen in immunocompromised or diabetic patients.
- It is characterized by severe pain, inflammation, and potential spread to surrounding tissues.
Observation:
- A case of MEO is presented in a healthy, 72-year-old male with no history of diabetes or immunosuppression.
- The patient developed MEO following routine ear syringing.
Findings:
- The infection was successfully treated with an eight-week course of oral ciprofloxacin.
- Complete clinical resolution of the malignant external otitis was achieved.
Implications:
- This case highlights that MEO can occur in seemingly healthy individuals, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
- Oral ciprofloxacin demonstrates efficacy in treating MEO, even in non-traditional patient populations.
- Ear syringing, a common procedure, may be a potential trigger for MEO in susceptible individuals.