Differential Diagnosis for Ear Pain
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Otitis Media: This is the most common cause of ear pain, especially in children. It is an infection of the middle ear that can be caused by bacteria or viruses, and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, hearing loss, and discharge.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Otitis Externa: Also known as swimmer's ear, this is an infection of the outer ear canal. It is often caused by bacteria or fungi and can be accompanied by symptoms such as itching, redness, and discharge.
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: This condition occurs when the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat becomes blocked, leading to a buildup of fluid in the ear and causing pain.
- Earwax Impaction: A buildup of earwax in the ear canal can cause pain, hearing loss, and other symptoms.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Mastoiditis: This is a serious infection of the mastoid bone, which is located behind the ear. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as brain abscess or meningitis.
- Petrous Apicitis: This is a rare but serious infection of the petrous portion of the temporal bone, which can lead to complications such as cranial nerve palsies or brain abscess.
- Temporal Arteritis: This is an inflammation of the temporal artery, which can cause ear pain, headache, and other symptoms. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as blindness or stroke.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Ramsay Hunt Syndrome: This is a rare condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which can cause ear pain, facial weakness, and other symptoms.
- Otosclerosis: This is a rare condition that affects the middle ear, causing hearing loss and ear pain.
- Relapsing Polychondritis: This is a rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation of the cartilage in the ear, leading to pain and other symptoms.