Otitis externa is an inflammation of the outer ear and ear canal. It is most commonly infectious, although it can be caused by inflammation or dermatitis (allergic reaction of the skin). Infections are most commonly bacterial, but may be fungal. Infections may be caused or worsened by water exposure, giving the condition the name - swimmer's ear. A culture may be recommended to determine the cause of the infection. Otitis externa may be acute or chronic. Treatment usually involves cleaning the ear under a microscope followed by ear drops aimed at treating the cause (antibiotics for bacterial infections, anti-fungal drops for fungal infections, or steroid drops or creams for inflammatory or allergic causes).
