Derm

Ear Canal Furuncle

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Ear Canal Furuncle, Localized Otitis Externa, Ear canal folliculitis

  • Pathophysiology
  1. Often complication of Otitis Externa
  2. Abscess of skin overlying ear canal cartilage
  3. Involves lateral third of external auditory canal
  4. Staphylococcal aureus most common cause
  • Signs and symptoms
  1. Furuncle may completely occlude ear canal
    1. May result in Hearing Loss
  2. May cause tenderness and induration
  3. Exquisite tenderness on auricle manipulation
  4. Spontaneous rupture of Furuncle relieves pain
    1. Purulent drainage may be seen
  • Differential Diagnosis
  1. Otitis Externa
  • Course
  1. Most Furuncles resolve spontaneously
  2. Incision and Drainage is rarely needed
  • Management
  1. Warm compresses
  2. Incise and drain abscess if needed
  3. Antibiotics if needed
    1. Indications
      1. Cellulitis surrounding Furuncle
      2. Fever
      3. Regional Lymphadenopathy
    2. Penicillinase resistant preparations
      1. Dicloxacillin