19/01/2026
Three common dermatologic causes of otitis externa
Eczematous Otitis Externa
Cause: Allergic or irritant contact dermatitis. It may be part of atopic eczema.
Clinical features:
The skin appears dry, erythematous, and scaly. Fissures or mild oozing may be present.
Symptoms:
Severe itching is the main complaint. Patients may describe burning or discomfort, often worsening after using ear drops, earphones, or frequent ear cleaning.
Associated history:
Atopic dermatitis, asthma, or allergic rhinitis.
Management:
Avoid irritants and water exposure. Use a low-potency topical corticosteroid such as hydrocortisone 1%. Add a topical antibiotic only if secondary infection is suspected. Once inflammation settles, regular moisturization is helpful.
Seborrheic Otitis Externa
Cause: Chronic seborrheic dermatitis related to excess sebum and overgrowth of Malassezia yeast.
Clinical features:
Greasy yellow scales with mild erythema and flaky debris inside the ear canal.
Symptoms:
Mild itching and a greasy or blocked ear sensation. Pain is uncommon.
Associated history:
Dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis affecting the scalp, eyebrows, nasolabial folds, or post-auricular area.
Management:
Gentle aural cleaning is important. Use a low-potency topical corticosteroid combined with an antifungal agent such as clotrimazole or ketoconazole. Treat the scalp and facial areas to prevent recurrence.
Psoriatic Otitis Externa
Cause: Immune-mediated inflammatory disease (psoriasis).
Clinical features:
Well-defined erythematous plaques covered with thick, dry, silvery scales.
Symptoms:
Mild to moderate itching. Pain may occur if fissuring develops.
Associated clues:
Psoriasis elsewhere on the body, nail pitting, or a positive family history.
Management:
Topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment and should be used cautiously inside the ear canal. Selected cases may benefit from vitamin D analogues, with dermatology follow-up for chronic disease.
Practical point
Some patients show overlapping features of seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis (sebopsoriasis). These cases usually respond best to a combination of a low-potency steroid and an antifungal agent.