Definition :
This is one type of allergic dermatitis of the external auditory canal of the ear.
Clinical Features :
This is one type of allergic dermatitis of the external auditory canal of the ear.
Clinical Features :
- Irritation and oedema of the canal may occur.
- Weeping eczema with crusting occurs in chronic cases.
- Secondary infection may lead to acute otitis externa.
- Stenosis gradually occurs, due to oedema and fibrosis.
- Fissuring and scaling of the external canal at the entrance is the result of a chronic allergy.
Treatment :
1. Acute stage :
- Steroids applied locally are very helpful.
- Antibiotics are administered locally and systemically.
- Antihistamines are prescribed.
2. Chronic stage :
- The steroid with antibiotics is very helpful.
- 10 % of silver nitrate is applied to fissures.
- Dilatation of stenosis by indwelling polyethene tubes or plastic surgery may be required.