Otitis externa CT
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Luke Rusowicz-Orazem, B.S.; Tarek Nafee, M.D. [2]
Overview
Overview
CT imaging is essential in establishing a diagnosis of malignant necrotizing otitis externa by revealing the extent of infection past the ear canal and extension to adjacent tissues.
Key CT Findings in Otitis Externa
Key CT Findings in Otitis Externa
CT scan of the head is essential in diagnosing malignant necrotizing otitis externa by revealing the extent of infection into the temporal or intracranial soft tissue.[1] CT scan of the head in cases of malignant otitis externa may reveal:[2]
- Thickening and enhancing soft tissue in the region of the external auditory canal with or without formation of a phlegmon or abscess
- In the case of an abscess, cartilaginous border enhancing collection(s) with a low attenuation (necrotic) center may be observed.
- The route of infection:
- Anteroinferiorly to involve the suprahyoid neck spaces
- Direct intracranial spread by erosion of the cartilaginous-bone in the external auditory canal
- Destruction of temporal bones and opacified mastoid air cells
- Destruction of the cortex of the mastoid[3]
- Underlying ause of facial palsy by localization of inflammation relative to the cranial nerves
References
References
- ↑ Handzel O, Halperin D (2003). “Necrotizing (malignant) external otitis”. Am Fam Physician. 68 (2): 309–12. PMID 12892351.
- ↑ “Necrotising otitis externa | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org”.
- ↑ Curtin, H D; Wolfe, P; May, M (1982). “Malignant external otitis: CT evaluation”. Radiology. 145 (2): 383–388. doi:10.1148/radiology.145.2.7134442. ISSN 0033-8419.
Looking for the patient version?
© 2026 MyEClinic – IFTM Institut für Telematik in der Medizin GmbH