• Janjulee Ellis, Allison De La Lis, Emily Rosen, Matthew T W Simpson, Michael M Beyea, and Jason A Beyea.
• Medical student at Queen's University in Kingston, Ont.
• Can Fam Physician. 2024 Oct 1; 70 (10): 617623617-623.

ObjectiveTo provide family physicians with a practical evidence-based approach to management of otitis externa.Sources Of InformationThe approach described is based on MEDLINE and PubMed literature published between 1993 and 2023.Main MessageOtitis externa is diffuse inflammation of the external auditory canal and typically occurs from moisture exposure and trauma. Management focuses on eliminating infection, pain management, education, and preventing recurrence. The primary treatment of uncomplicated otitis externa is topical. Complicated presentations may require additional systemic therapy.ConclusionHistory taking and physical examination can help differentiate among acute, chronic, and necrotizing otitis externa. At-risk populations, typically those who are immunosuppressed, are more likely to develop necrotizing otitis externa and should be carefully monitored.Copyright © 2024 the College of Family Physicians of Canada.

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