Otomycosis
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Synopsis
Otomycosis is a fungal infection causing inflammation in the external auditory canal. Causal fungal species commonly include Aspergillus and Candida and rarely include Phycomycetes, Rhizopus, Actinomyces, and Penicillium. Common findings include ear pruritus, hearing loss, otalgia, otorrhea, and aural fullness. Otomycosis is an uncommon cause of otitis externa.
Predisposing factors for otomycosis include the presence of cerumen, living in a humid climate, the increased use of steroids / topical antibiotics, instrumentation of the ear, hearing aid use, and being immunocompromised.
Treatment involves thorough ear cleaning combined with topical antifungal therapy. Several cleanings may be necessary. Severe cases may require referral to an otolaryngologist for intense cleaning.
Predisposing factors for otomycosis include the presence of cerumen, living in a humid climate, the increased use of steroids / topical antibiotics, instrumentation of the ear, hearing aid use, and being immunocompromised.
Treatment involves thorough ear cleaning combined with topical antifungal therapy. Several cleanings may be necessary. Severe cases may require referral to an otolaryngologist for intense cleaning.
Codes
ICD10CM:
B36.9 – Superficial mycosis, unspecified
SNOMEDCT:
53316003 – Otomycosis
B36.9 – Superficial mycosis, unspecified
SNOMEDCT:
53316003 – Otomycosis
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Last Reviewed:10/13/2021
Last Updated:10/13/2021
Last Updated:10/13/2021