Differential Diagnosis for Left Ear Pain and Hearing Loss with Swelling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Otitis Externa: This condition, also known as swimmer's ear, is an inflammation of the outer ear and ear canal. It is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of ear pain, hearing loss, and swelling extending to surrounding tissue. The swelling and pain are consistent with an infectious or inflammatory process affecting the outer ear.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media): This condition can cause ear pain, hearing loss, and if severe, can lead to complications involving surrounding tissues, such as mastoiditis. The symptoms can overlap with otitis externa, especially if there's an associated outer ear infection.
- Mastoiditis: An infection of the mastoid bone, which is located behind the ear. It can cause pain, hearing loss, and swelling that extends to the surrounding tissue, including the ear and scalp.
- Perichondritis: An infection of the cartilage of the ear, which can cause pain, swelling, and redness of the ear, potentially leading to hearing loss if the infection spreads to the ear canal or middle ear.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can arise from facial or sinus infections, including those of the ear. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Malignant Otitis Externa: A severe infection of the outer ear and skull base, more common in diabetic or immunocompromised patients. It can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if not promptly treated.
- Lymphoma or Other Malignancies: Although rare, malignancies can present with ear symptoms, including pain, hearing loss, and swelling. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Relapsing Polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause cartilage inflammation, leading to ear pain, swelling, and potentially hearing loss.
- Eosinophilic Otitis Media: A rare condition characterized by an eosinophilic infiltration of the middle ear, often associated with asthma or other allergic conditions.
- Cholesteatoma: A type of skin cyst located in the middle ear, which can cause hearing loss and other complications if it grows and damages surrounding structures.