Which symptom correlates with necrotizing (malignant) otitis externa?

Which symptom correlates with necrotizing (malignant) otitis externa?

• A. Pain with head movement
• B. Purulent drainage from the ear
• C. Fever above 101°F
• D. Bleeding from the ear

Answer: (B)

The symptom that correlates with necrotizing (malignant) otitis externa is purulent drainage from the ear. Necrotizing otitis externa is a severe infection of the external ear canal and surrounding tissue primarily caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It typically occurs in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with diabetes, and is characterized by a progressive infection that can lead to tissue necrosis. Purulent drainage is a prominent feature of this condition as it indicates an ongoing bacterial infection and the presence of pus, which contains dead cells, bacteria, and inflammatory cells. This drainage can be foul-smelling and may vary in color, which aligns with the advanced nature of the infection and the destruction of tissue. Other symptoms, while they may be present in different conditions affecting the ear, are not as specific to necrotizing otitis externa. While pain with head movement, fever, and even bleeding can occur, they are not definitive indicators of this particular condition. The presence of purulent drainage provides a more direct link to the underlying pathological process associated with necrotizing otitis externa.

The symptom that correlates with necrotizing (malignant) otitis externa is purulent drainage from the ear. Necrotizing otitis externa is a severe infection of the external ear canal and surrounding tissue primarily caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It typically occurs in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with diabetes, and is characterized by a progressive infection that can lead to tissue necrosis.

Purulent drainage is a prominent feature of this condition as it indicates an ongoing bacterial infection and the presence of pus, which contains dead cells, bacteria, and inflammatory cells. This drainage can be foul-smelling and may vary in color, which aligns with the advanced nature of the infection and the destruction of tissue.

Other symptoms, while they may be present in different conditions affecting the ear, are not as specific to necrotizing otitis externa. While pain with head movement, fever, and even bleeding can occur, they are not definitive indicators of this particular condition. The presence of purulent drainage provides a more direct link to the underlying pathological process associated with necrotizing otitis externa.