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Disorders of the external auditory canal
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75235-9035, USA.
Journal of the American Academy of Audiology
|January 20, 1998
Summary
This review covers external auditory canal anatomy, physiology, and various disorders like otitis and tumors. It emphasizes treatments, including outpatient management for malignant external otitis.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Dermatology
Background:
- The external auditory canal (EAC) has specific anatomy and physiology crucial for hearing.
- Numerous conditions affect the EAC, ranging from infections to neoplasms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of EAC disorders and their treatments.
- To review current therapeutic approaches, including novel outpatient strategies for severe infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of EAC anatomy, physiology, and pathology.
- Detailed description of various EAC conditions and their etiological factors.
- Emphasis on diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities for each disorder.
Main Results:
- Normal EAC structure and function are detailed.
- Common and rare EAC disorders are described, including infections, inflammatory conditions, benign and malignant tumors.
- Malignant external otitis management, focusing on outpatient oral antimicrobial therapy, is discussed.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of EAC disorders requires understanding normal anatomy and diverse pathologies.
- Outpatient treatment protocols, particularly for malignant external otitis, are evolving and show promise.
- A broad spectrum of EAC conditions necessitates tailored therapeutic strategies.