A 60-year-old man presents with severe pain, itching, and discharge from his right ear for 3 days. He is a keen swimmer. On examination, the ear canal...

Question

A 60-year-old man presents with severe pain, itching, and discharge from his right ear for 3 days. He is a keen swimmer. On examination, the ear canal is erythematous and oedematous. Manipulation of the pinna is painful. What is the most appropriate first-line treatment?

Accepted Answer

Topical combined corticosteroid and antibiotic spray (e.g., Otomize)

Answer

Oral amoxicillin

Answer

Topical acetic acid 2% spray

Answer

Oral flucloxacillin

Answer

Referral to ENT for microsuction

mrcgp akt MCQ (SBA): Otitis Externa

A 60-year-old man presents with severe pain, itching, and discharge from his right ear for 3 days. He is a keen swimmer. On examination, the ear canal is erythematous and oedematous. Manipulation of the pinna is painful. What is the most appropriate first-line treatment?