Otitis externa.

Otitis externa is a broad term for a disease state that includes inflammation or infection of the external auditory canal and auricle. It can range from mild inflammation and discomfort to a life-threatening disease. Treatment of otitis externa is dependent on a thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology of the external ear canal, a knowledge of the microbiology of potential pathogens, and familiarity with clinical presentation, so that an accurate and timely diagnosis can be reached.