Differential Diagnosis for Ear Burning
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Otalgia (Earache) due to Earwax Impaction or Middle Ear Infection: This is often the most common cause of ear burning, as it can result from a variety of factors including infection, earwax buildup, or even referred pain from nearby structures.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Eczema or Dermatitis of the ear: Skin conditions can cause burning sensations in the ear.
- Ear Canal Irritation or Infection (Otitis Externa): Also known as swimmer's ear, this condition can cause burning, itching, and discomfort in the ear canal.
- Referred Pain from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or teeth: Sometimes, pain from the jaw or teeth can be felt in the ear.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Malignant Otitis Externa: A severe infection that can spread to the skull base and is more common in diabetic or immunocompromised patients.
- Ramsay Hunt Syndrome: A viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus that can lead to facial paralysis and ear pain.
- Temporal Arteritis: Inflammation of the blood vessels in the head, which can cause ear pain and other symptoms like headache and visual disturbances.
- Rare diagnoses
- Relapsing Polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation of the cartilage in the ear, leading to burning sensations.
- Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause dryness and inflammation in the ears, among other symptoms.
- Neurological Conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia: Although rare, certain neurological conditions can cause burning sensations in the ear due to nerve involvement.