ear, nose, and throat disorders
Otorrhea
Etiology of Otorrhea
Causes of ear discharge may originate from the ear canal, the middle ear, or the cranial vault. Certain causes tend to manifest acutely because of the severity of their symptoms or associated conditions. Others usually have a more indolent, chronic course but sometimes manifest acutely (see table). Overall, the most common causes are Otitis Media (Acute) with perforation Otitis Media (Chronic Suppurative) (with a perforation of the eardrum, cholesteatoma, or both) External Otitis (Acute) None The most serious causes are Mastoiditis and cancer of the ear. 