Malignant otitis externa: An emerging scourge

Malignant otitis externa is an emerging problem in developing countries. We are seeing an increase in this condition in elderly people with diabetes. This paper reports on a retrospective chart review of 18 patients with malignant otitis externa in a tertiary care center. We have comprehensively discussed the clinical features, diagnosis, and management of this disease. Malignant otitis externa is suspected in high-risk patients, i.e., elderly individuals with diabetes, immunocompromised, and immunosuppressed patients. Early and prolonged use of appropriate antimicrobials will reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition. The role of surgery is limited to biopsy, the draining of microabscesses, or the removal of sequestrum.