Otomycosis, or fungal ear infection, accounts for 10% of ear infections and is more common in hot, humid climates or after prolonged antibiotic use. It presents with debris-filled discharge resembling wet newspaper and sometimes visible fungal hyphae. Treatment involves removing debris from the ear and using topical antifungal drops. For resistant cases, checking for fungal infections elsewhere and potentially using systemic antifungals is recommended due to the risk of recurrence from untreated primary infections.

1. Otomycosis
Otomycosis or fungal otitis externa accounts for approximately 10% of all cases. It is more common
in hot, humid climates& is often secondary to prolonged treatment with topical antibiotic. DM &
immunocompromised states also predispose to the condition.
Clinical findings
The most common finding is a black ,grey, green, yellow or white discharge with debris that is often
said to resemble wet newspaper.
Sometimes debris is seen with visible fungal hyphae.
Management
Toilet & removal of debris.
Topical anti –fungal drops (Locorten-vioform) are used to expedite recovery.
In case of resistant otomycosis ,it is essential to exclude fungal infection elsewhere, In that cases,
systemic anti-fungal therapy is required.
Key points;
Otomycosis occurs because the protective lipid/ acid balance of the ear is lost.
It affects 10% of the population in their life time.
Upto 25% of the patients may be clinically hypersensitive to topical medication.
The foot & ear reaction can cause recurrent otomycosis if the primary fungal infection elsewhere
remains untreated.