Otorrhea

Otorrhea is a medical condition characterized by the discharge or drainage of substance from the ear. This discharge can vary in nature, ranging from clear fluid to pus, and can be a symptom of several different medical conditions.

Causes

Otorrhea can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Otitis externa: This is an infection of the outer ear and ear canal, often caused by bacteria or fungi. It can lead to inflammation and discharge from the ear.
• Otitis media: This is an infection of the middle ear, which can cause fluid to build up behind the eardrum and potentially lead to otorrhea.
• Cholesteatoma: This is a skin growth that occurs in the middle ear, usually as a result of chronic ear infection. It can lead to otorrhea, as well as hearing loss.
• Mastoiditis: This is an infection of the mastoid bone, located behind the ear. It can cause otorrhea, as well as pain and swelling behind the ear.
• Trauma: Any injury to the ear, including a perforated eardrum, can result in otorrhea.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of otorrhea is the discharge or drainage from the ear. This discharge can vary in nature, ranging from clear fluid to pus. Other symptoms can include:

• Pain or discomfort in the ear
• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
• Vertigo (a sense of spinning or loss of balance)

Treatment

Treatment for otorrhea depends on the underlying cause. This can include:

• Antibiotics or antifungal medications to treat infections
• Pain relievers to manage discomfort
• Surgery to remove cholesteatomas or to repair a perforated eardrum

See also

• Otitis externa
• Otitis media
• Cholesteatoma
• Mastoiditis
• Trauma

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