Q- A 68-year-old man with a long history of poorly controlled diabetes presents to his physician complaining of pain and drainage in his left ear. His vital signs are within normal limits. The pinna of his left ear is tender. The external meatus is swollen and covered with purulent drainage.
What is the most likely organism responsible for his condition?
A-Candida albicans
B-Haemophilus influenzae
C-Pseudomonas aeruginosa
D-Moraxella catarrhalis
E-Streptococcus pneumoniae
Answer:
The patient’s symptoms suggest a case of malignant otitis externa (MOE), also known as necrotizing otitis externa. This condition is often seen in elderly patients, especially those with poorly controlled diabetes. The typical presentation includes severe ear pain, swelling, purulent discharge, and sometimes granulation tissue in the ear canal.
The most likely organism responsible for malignant otitis externa is Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
The correct answer is C