II. Causes
- Poorly controlled Otitis Externa
- Abrasions or Lacerations
- High Ear Piercing (involving pinna cartilage)
- Usually within first month of piercing
III. Organisms
IV. Symptoms and Signs
- Swollen warm, tender, erythematous auricle
- Pain on deflection of auricle
- Differentiates from superficial infection
- Ear lobule may also be infected
- Tympanic Membrane not involved
V. Management
- Broad antibiotic coverage
- Gram Positive Bacteria and Gram Negative Bacteria
- Fluoroquinolones cover this well
- Intravenous antibiotics may be needed
- Local antibiotic drops if canal is affected
- Surgical Debridement may be needed
VI. Complications
- Perichondrial abscess with poor cosmetic healing
- Necrosis