The tympanic membrane is clearly visible and is unremarkable. What is the most appropriate management?

A 23-year-old man presents with a 4 day history of an itchy and sore right ear. He has recently returned from holiday in Spain. On examination the right ear canal is inflamed but no debris is seen. The tympanic membrane is clearly visible and is unremarkable. What is the most appropriate management?

Topical corticosteroid + aminoglycoside
Topical corticosteroid
Refer to ENT
Topical corticosteroid + clotrimazole
Oral flucloxacillin

Dr. Kasper:
Topical corticosteroid + aminoglycoside

This patient has otitis externa, which commonly develops after swimming on holiday. The first line management is either a topical antibiotic or a combined topical antibiotic and steroid.