Differential Diagnosis for Ear Ache
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Otitis Media: This is the most common cause of ear ache, especially in children. It is an infection of the middle ear that can be caused by bacteria or viruses, leading to inflammation and fluid buildup behind the eardrum.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Otitis Externa: Also known as swimmer's ear, this is an infection of the outer ear canal. It can be caused by bacteria or fungi and is often associated with itching, redness, and discharge.
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: This condition occurs when the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat (Eustachian tube) does not open and close properly, leading to a feeling of fullness and discomfort in the ear.
- Earwax Impaction: A buildup of earwax can cause discomfort, hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Mastoiditis: A serious infection of the mastoid bone, which is located behind the ear. If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as brain abscess or meningitis.
- Petrous Apicitis: A rare but serious infection of the petrous part of the temporal bone, which can lead to complications such as cranial nerve palsies or brain abscess.
- Ramsay Hunt Syndrome: A condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which can lead to facial paralysis, ear pain, and vesicles in the ear.
Rare Diagnoses
- Relapsing Polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and damage to the cartilage in the ear, leading to ear pain and deformity.
- Temporal Bone Tumor: A rare tumor that can occur in the temporal bone, leading to ear pain, hearing loss, and other symptoms.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A rare condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which can cause severe facial pain, including ear pain.