Otitis externa; malignant

Alternative names:

malignant otitis externa; osteomyelitis of the skull

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is cure of the infection. Treatment is often prolonged, lasting several months, because of the difficulty of treating the involved bacteria and the difficulties reaching an infection that is within bone tissue.

Antibiotics that are effective against the involved microorganism are given for prolonged periods. They may be given intravenously or, occasionally, orally. Antibiotic therapy should be continued until scan or other tests show a marked reduction in the associated inflammation.

Occasionally, surgical debridement of the skull is needed to allow drainage and to reduce deterioration of the bone.

Expectations (prognosis):

Malignant otitis externa usually responds to prolonged treatment but may recur.

Complications:

• recurrence of malignant otitis externa
• damage to the cranial nerves, skull, or brain
• spread of infection to the brain or other parts of the body

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of malignant otitis externa develop.

Call your health care provider if symptoms persist despite treatment, or if new symptoms develop.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if convulsions, decreased consciousness, severe confusion, or similar symptoms develop.