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Fungal Infections of the External Auditory Canal and Emerging Pathogens

Erika McCarty Walsh1, Matthew B Hanson2

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.

Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America
|August 8, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Accurate identification of fungal ear infections is crucial for effective treatment. Opportunistic fungal infections are an emerging concern, particularly in diabetic, immunocompromised, or recently antibiotic-treated patients.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Fungal infections of the external auditory canal present a spectrum of severity, from common otomycosis to life-threatening necrotizing otitis externa.
  • Accurate identification of fungal pathogens is essential for guiding appropriate therapeutic strategies.
  • A high index of suspicion for fungal etiologies is critical in diagnosing ear canal diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To emphasize the importance of identifying fungal pathogens in external auditory canal infections.
  • To highlight specific populations at increased risk for fungal ear infections.
  • To address the growing concern of opportunistic fungal infections in the ear canal.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical presentations and diagnostic challenges in fungal otitis externa.
  • Discussion of risk factors associated with fungal ear infections.
  • Emphasis on clinical suspicion and diagnostic criteria.

Main Results:

  • Fungal pathogens are significant causes of external auditory canal disease.
  • Certain populations, including patients with diabetes, those on recent antibiotics, and immunosuppressed individuals, are at higher risk.
  • Opportunistic fungal infections represent an emerging clinical concern.

Conclusions:

  • Prompt and accurate identification of fungal pathogens is vital for managing external auditory canal infections.
  • Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for fungal causes, especially in at-risk populations.
  • The increasing prevalence of opportunistic fungal infections necessitates heightened awareness and diagnostic vigilance.
Keywords:
Fungal otitis externaMalignant otitis externaNecrotizing otitis externaOtomycosis

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