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Otitis externa — ABFM Board MCQ

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EasyENT, OphthalmologyOtitis externaABFM Board

A 24-year-old swimmer has ear pain worsened by pulling the pinna. The ear canal is erythematous with debris; tympanic membrane is intact and she is afebrile. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial treatment?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Topical fluoroquinolone or acetic acid-based ear drops

Acute otitis externa presents with canal inflammation and pain with tragus or pinna manipulation; topical therapy is first-line.

Reference: American Family Physician clinical reviews and AAFP guidance: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp.html