Use of magnetic resonance imaging as the primary imaging modality in the diagnosis and follow-up of malignant external otitis

J Laryngol Otol. 2004 Jul;118(7):576-9. doi: 10.1258/0022215041615100.

Abstract

Malignant external otitis (MEO) is a severe infection of the external auditory meatus caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Classical features include unrelenting deep otalgia, otorrhoea and granulations in the floor of the ear canal. Treatment is generally protracted antibiotic therapy and monitoring of inflammatory markers; the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Traditionally computed tomography (CT) has been the imaging modality of choice. The authors present a case where magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been crucial in the diagnosis and follow up of a patient with MEO.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Drug Therapy, Combination / therapeutic use
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Otitis Externa / diagnosis*
  • Otitis Externa / drug therapy
  • Pseudomonas Infections / diagnosis
  • Pseudomonas Infections / drug therapy
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents