otorröa

Otorrhea is the term used to describe discharge from the ear. This discharge can vary in appearance, consistency, and odor, and it can originate from different parts of the ear canal. The presence of otorrhea often indicates an underlying medical condition affecting the ear.

Common causes of otorrhea include infections of the ear canal, such as otitis externa (swimmer's ear), or infections of the middle ear, like otitis media. If the eardrum is perforated, fluid or pus from the middle ear can drain through the ear canal, leading to otorrhea. Other potential causes include foreign bodies in the ear canal, skin conditions affecting the ear, or, in rare cases, tumors.

The characteristics of the discharge can provide clues to the cause. For example, a clear, watery discharge might suggest a leak of cerebrospinal fluid following a head injury, though this is uncommon. A thick, white, or yellow discharge is more typical of bacterial infections. Bloody discharge can occur with trauma, infections, or more serious conditions. Foul-smelling discharge may also point to infection or the presence of a foreign object.

Diagnosis of the cause of otorrhea typically involves a physical examination of the ear using an otoscope. Further investigations, such as a culture of the discharge to identify the causative organism or imaging studies, may be necessary depending on the suspected underlying condition. Treatment for otorrhea depends entirely on its cause and may involve antibiotic ear drops, oral antibiotics, cleaning of the ear canal, or surgical intervention for more complex issues.