necrotizing otitis externa

necrotizing otitis externa

Infection of the base of the skull that originates in the external auditory canal. It is usually caused by infection with the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The disease occurs most often in diabetic and other immunocompromised patients. It may be life-threatening and requires prolonged antibiotic therapy. Hyperbaric oxygen treatments are used in patients with the most advanced and refractory disease.

See also: otitis