[Treatment of therapy refractory chronic otitis externa by local injection of triamcinolone acetate crystalline suspension. Initial experiences].

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVE

External otitis is characterized by otalgia, otorrhea, itching, and hearing loss. Treatment usually consists of local application of corticosteroids and antibiotics. Chronic external otitis is accompanied by thickening of the skin in the external auditory channel. This reduces the effect of the applied substances. Local injection of suitable drugs may support the conservative treatment. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of local injection of triamcinolone acetonide in the external auditory channel.

PATIENTS/

METHODS

Thirteen patients with external otitis resistant to conservative treatment received an injection of triamcinolone acetonide in the external auditory channel. The improvement achieved was assessed by clinical examination and questionnaires.

RESULTS

The symptoms improved substantially in all patients; most of the patients were cured completely.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that local injection of triamcinolone acetonide is effective in the management of chronic external otitis.