II. Pathophysiology

  1. Often complication of Otitis Externa
  2. Abscess of skin overlying ear canal cartilage
  3. Involves lateral third of external auditory canal
  4. Staphylococcal aureus most common cause

III. Signs and symptoms

  1. Furuncle may completely occlude ear canal
    1. May result in Hearing Loss
  2. May cause tenderness and induration
  3. Exquisite tenderness on auricle manipulation
  4. Spontaneous rupture of Furuncle relieves pain
    1. Purulent drainage may be seen

IV. Differential Diagnosis

V. Course

  1. Most Furuncles resolve spontaneously
  2. Incision and Drainage is rarely needed

VI. Management

  1. Warm compresses
  2. Incise and drain abscess if needed
  3. Antibiotics if needed
    1. Indications
      1. Cellulitis surrounding Furuncle
      2. Fever
      3. Regional Lymphadenopathy
    2. Penicillinase resistant preparations
      1. Dicloxacillin

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