Otitis

Ear anatomy

Also known as: Ear infection and Infection - ear

Definition

Otitis is a general term for infection or inflammation of the ear.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Otitis can affect the inner or outer parts of the ear. The condition is classified according to whether it occurs suddenly and for a short time (acute) or repeatedly over a long period of time (chronic).

When otitis involves the outer ear and ear canal, it is called otitis externa. For specific information, see:

When otitis involves the middle ear, located just behind the eardrum, it is called otitis media: For specific information, see:

See also:

  • Disease

    Ear infection - acute

    Ear anatomy

    Ear infections are one of the most common reasons parents take their children to the doctor. While there are different types of ear infections, the most common is called otitis media, which means an inflammation and infection of the middle ear. The middle ear is located just behind the eardrum. ...

  • Disease

    Swimmer's ear - chronic

    Ear anatomy

    Swimmer’s ear is inflammation, irritation, or infection of the outer ear and ear canal. Chronic swimmer’s ear occurs when the condition does not go away or comes back multiple times. See also:

  • Disease

    Otitis media with effusion

    Ear anatomy

    Otitis media with effusion (OME) is when there is thick or sticky fluid behind the eardrum in the middle ear, but there is no .

  • Disease

    Ear infection - chronic

    Ear anatomy

    Chronic ear infection is inflammation or infection of the middle ear that persists or keeps coming back, and causes long-term or permanent damage to the ear. See also:

  • Disease

    Malignant otitis externa

    Ear anatomy

    Malignant otitis externa is a disorder involving inflammation and damage of the bones and cartilage at the base of the skull.

  • Disease

    Swimmer's ear

    Ear anatomy

    Swimmer’s ear is inflammation, irritation, or infection of the outer ear and ear canal. The medical term for swimmer’s ear is otitis externa. Swimmer’s ear may be or chronic.

Review date:
July 26, 2010
Reviewed by:
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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