Otomycosis

  • Fungal infection of the ear canal
  • Causative organisms: Aspergillus niger (Black Spots), A. fumigatus, Candida albicans (White cotton)

Risk Factors:

  • Hot and humid climate
  • Secondary fungal growth due to use of topical antibiotics

Clinical Features:

  • ***Intense itching ***
  • Discomfort or pain
  • Watery discharge with a bad odour
  • Ear blockage
  • Fungal mass seen as white, brown, or black

On Examination:

  • A. niger: Blackheaded filamentous growth
  • A. fumigatus: Pale blue or green
  • Candida: White or creamy deposit
  • Meatal skin appears sodden, red, and oedematous

Treatment:

  • Aural toilet
  • Antifungal agents (Nystatin, Clotrimazole) - topical
  • Optimize general conditions