Otitis externa

Abstract

Otitis externa is an ear infection in the ear canal, which runs from the eardrum to the outer ear. Otitis externa may be caused by bacterial or fungal infection in the ear canal. The most common symptom of otitis externa is pain that may spread to the outside of the face. This ear infection is often called ‘swimmer’s ear’ but does not just happen to people who swim; it can happen anytime water remains in the ear canal, creating a moist environment that aids in the growth of bacteria and/or fungi.