Which finding is most consistent with otitis externa?

Which finding is most consistent with otitis externa?

• A. Deep ear pain
• B. Loss of hearing
• C. External canal tenderness and redness
• D. Fever

Answer: (C)

Otitis externa is an infection of the skin lining the external ear canal. The hallmark finding is tenderness of the ear canal itself when touched or when the tragus is palpated, along with visible redness and swelling of the canal. This localized canal inflammation is what sets otitis externa apart from other ear conditions. Deep ear pain can occur, and some hearing loss may happen if swelling narrows the canal, but fever is not typical for a localized outer ear infection. So, external canal tenderness and redness best fit the picture.

Otitis externa is an infection of the skin lining the external ear canal. The hallmark finding is tenderness of the ear canal itself when touched or when the tragus is palpated, along with visible redness and swelling of the canal. This localized canal inflammation is what sets otitis externa apart from other ear conditions. Deep ear pain can occur, and some hearing loss may happen if swelling narrows the canal, but fever is not typical for a localized outer ear infection. So, external canal tenderness and redness best fit the picture.