• Tracy Cheffins, Clare Heal, and Steven Rudolphy.
• James Cook University, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Townsville, Queensland, Australia. tracy.cheffins@jcu.edu.au
• Aust Fam Physician. 2009 Apr 1; 38 (4): 262-3, 265-6.

BackgroundAcute otitis externa (AOE) is a common condition in North Queensland. Clinical guidelines exist for the management of this condition. This study explores the pattern of causative pathogens and management of AOE by general practitioners in North Queensland.MethodsEight general practices in three regional cities of North Queensland participated in the study. The three components were: a retrospective case audit of AOE management, a survey of GPs' self reported usual management, and collection of clinical data and microbiological specimens from new cases.ResultsPseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common causative pathogen in all regions, GPs correctly identified the most common pathogens, there was variation in the use of oral antibiotics between regions (15.8-36.6%), ear syringing is commonly used in managing AOE (51.3%), and most patients (68.9%) required only one GP appointment.DiscussionGeneral practitioners have good knowledge of the causative pathogens for AOE in their region. While clinical guidelines are generally followed, there is some variation in the prescription of oral antibiotics and use of ear syringing in managing this condition.

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