Multiresistant Acinetobacter Baumannii causing Malignant Otitis Externa: a Case Report: doi: 10.7417/CT.2023.2543

Abstract

Malignant otitis externa (MOE), also known as necrotizing otitis externa, is a severe infection originating from the skin and soft tissue of the ear canal and spreading to the nearby structures. It manifests as persistent otalgia and otorrhea and can potentially cause dire consequences such as cranial nerve involvement, meningitis, and jugular vein thrombosis. The diagnosis is based on clinical findings and aided by laboratory tests and imaging. Since the condition is usually caused by Pseudomonas Aeruginosa, broad-spectrum antibiotics such as cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones are the mainstay of treatment. Here we describe a rare case of MOE caused by multiresistant Acinetobacter Baumannii, which required the use of a last-resort antibiotic, colistin. It represents a case sentinel, and a high index of suspicion should be maintained in patients with a history of multiple hospitalizations and signs and symptoms of otitis externa nonresponsive to the standard treatment.