Differential Diagnosis for Ear Pain

The following is a list of potential diagnoses for ear pain, categorized by likelihood and potential impact.

• 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.
  • Otitis externa (swimmer's ear): This is an infection of the outer ear canal, often caused by bacterial or fungal infections, and is common in individuals who swim frequently or have excessive moisture in the ear canal.

• Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Eustachian tube dysfunction: This condition occurs when the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat becomes blocked, leading to ear pain and discomfort.
  • Earwax impaction: A buildup of earwax can cause ear pain, itching, and hearing loss.
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder: This condition affects the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull and can cause ear pain, as well as jaw pain and clicking or popping sounds.
  • Dental problems: Issues such as toothaches, abscesses, or gum disease can radiate pain to the ear.

• Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Malignant otitis externa: A severe infection of the outer ear that can spread to the skull and brain, particularly in individuals with diabetes or weakened immune systems.
  • Mastoiditis: An infection of the mastoid bone, which is located behind the ear, and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
  • Petrous apicitis: A rare but serious infection of the petrous part of the temporal bone, which can cause severe ear pain, headache, and neurological symptoms.
  • Ramsay Hunt syndrome: A viral infection that affects the facial nerve and can cause ear pain, facial weakness, and hearing loss.

• Rare Diagnoses

  • Relapsing polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and damage to the cartilage in the ears, as well as other parts of the body.
  • Otosclerosis: A rare condition that affects the middle ear and can cause hearing loss and ear pain.
  • Cholesteatoma: A rare skin growth in the middle ear that can cause ear pain, hearing loss, and balance problems.
  • Ear cancer: A rare type of cancer that can cause ear pain, hearing loss, and other symptoms.