Fungal inflammation of the external ear

Fungal infection

Fungal inflammation of the outer ear occurs with the presence in the external auditory canal (PSZ) of the discharge characteristic of fungal infection. It occurs due to injuries or water retention in the external auditory canal and in patients with diabetes mellitus, psoriasis or those with diabetes.

Causes of fungal otitis externa

The factors that cause fungal otitis externa may be:

• mold fungus Aspergillus (A.) fumigatus, A. niger, A. flavus,
• yeast-like Candida spp,
• lipophilic yeasts of the genus Malassezia.

Infections of the external auditory canal may occur due to injuries, water retention in PES and prolonged use of antibiotics locally and generally. Diabetes, obesity, immunological defects, psoriasis and others are predisposing states.

Symptoms of fungal otitis externa

External ear infection caused by Aspergillus fungi occurs as an inflammatory erythema-exfoliative lesion resembling eczema or seborrheic dermatitis, which is often accompanied by a leak from the ear. Sometimes small sores covered with scabs are present; on the surface of the inflamed skin there are yellow, greenish or dark deposits depending on the type of the dropper.

Symptoms of fungal otitis externa include:

• ache,
• feeling of pressure in the external ear,
• sometimes acute hearing impairment,
• strong pruritus.

Skin infections of the external ear may be accompanied by symptoms of peritonitis. In turn, fungal infection of Candida spp . characterized by tarry mucus secretion or erythematous altered skin of the external auditory canal, which may cover white, gray or black coating.

In both infections, patients' quality of life deteriorates. In the world literature, there are single works on the role of Malassezia spp. In inflammation of the external ear.

Diagnosis and treatment of fungal external ear infection

The diagnosis uses direct and culture mycological examination. The prognosis of this ailment is generally successful. It is necessary to prevent relapse by avoiding predisposing factors and treat diseases that are the basis for the development of fungal infections.

The treatment of fungal otitis externa is based on the use of clotrimazole and nystatin in drops or powder. In cases of failure in local treatment or in patients with immunosuppression, general antifungal preparations are recommended.