What is a typical symptom of malignant otitis externa?

Malignant otitis externa is characterized predominantly by severe ear pain. This condition typically occurs in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with diabetes or advanced age. The pain associated with malignant otitis externa is often more intense than that seen in typical otitis externa, as it involves deeper tissue invasion and can affect surrounding structures, including the temporomandibular joint and cranial nerves.

The pain can be constant, throbbing, and may even radiate to nearby areas, making it a hallmark symptom of the condition. In contrast to other symptoms associated with ear disorders, such as itching, fluid-filled blisters, or hearing loss, the severe nature of the ear pain in malignant otitis externa is a distinguishing feature that signifies the seriousness of the underlying pathology. The potential for the infection to spread and the risk of complications further emphasize the critical nature of this symptom in clinical assessment and diagnosis.