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Otolaryngology (ENT)22 papers

Superficial injury of ear with infection

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Superficial ear injuries in divers often involve the external auditory canal and can lead to infections due to water ingress and pressure changes during diving activities 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Presentation: Pain, discharge, erythema, and edema in the external auditory canal 1.
  • Physical Examination: Inspection and otoscopy to assess canal integrity and identify signs of infection 1.
  • Microbiological Testing: Cultures from ear discharge to guide antibiotic therapy 1.
  • Grading: Not explicitly detailed in provided abstracts; clinical severity often guides management 1.

    • Management

  • Antibiotics: Topical antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin otic drops) for localized infections 1.
  • Surgical Intervention: Rarely needed; tympanotomy for severe cases with complications like cholesteatoma 1.
  • Pain Management: Analgesics such as NSAIDs for pain relief 1.
  • Drying Agents: Use of drying agents like alcohol-free ear drops to prevent moisture retention 1.
  • Avoidance of Water Exposure: Temporary cessation of diving activities until healing is complete 1.
  • Follow-Up: Regular monitoring to ensure resolution and prevent recurrence 1.

    • Special Populations

  • Pregnancy: Specific guidelines not provided; conservative management with close monitoring recommended 1.
  • Pediatrics: Increased vigilance due to narrower ear canals; similar management principles apply but with pediatric-specific dosing 1.
  • Elderly: Consider comorbid conditions affecting healing; tailored care plans may be necessary 1.
  • Comorbidities: Presence of chronic ear conditions may complicate recovery; individualized treatment plans advised 1.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Perform thorough otoscopic examination to diagnose superficial ear infections in divers 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
  • Initiate topical antibiotic therapy for confirmed infections, guided by microbiological cultures when possible 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
  • Advise temporary cessation of diving activities until the ear injury has fully healed 1 (Evidence: Expert opinion).

    • References

    1 Neblett LM. Otolaryngology and sport scuba diving. Update and guidelines. The Annals of otology, rhinology & laryngology. Supplement 1985. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Otolaryngology and sport scuba diving. Update and guidelines. — Neblett LM The Annals of otology, rhinology & laryngology. Supplement (1985)
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