Which of the following is correct about the furuncle of ear?
- Localised to outer 2/3rd cartilaginous part of EAC
- Recurrent furunculosis should be investigated for diabetes mellitus
- Staphylococcal infection of the hair follicle
A furuncle is a staphylococcal infection of the hair follicle.
As the hairs are confined only to the outer 1/3rd cartilaginous part of the meatus, furuncle is seen only in this part of meatus.
Symptoms are severe compared to signs as the skin over the EAC is tightly adherent.
Signs:
- Tragal sign is positive
- Obliteration of retroauricular groove
Treated by 1&D or 10% ichthamol glycerine wicks and antibiotics. In case of recurrent furunculosis, diabetes should be ruled out.