Otitis externa

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Although mild cases of otitis externa often respond quickly to appropriate therapy, primary care physicians need to be alert to more severe infection, particularly in diabetic and immunocompromised patients. In these cases, uncomplicated infection may progress to deep invasion of bone and become potentially fatal if cranial nerves are affected. Prompt referral to an otolaryngologist is recommended.

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Natasha Mirza

Natasha Mirza, MD Dr Mirza is assistant professor of otorhinoiaryngoiogy/head and neck surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and chief, otolaryngology section, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia. She is a general otolaryngologist with a special interest in nasal physiology and head and neck oncology.