Question

question 79
what physical exam finding is most suggestive of otitis externa?
pain when pulling on the ear
bulging tympanic membrane
erythema of the tympanic membrane
nonerythematous external acoustic meatus
absence of the light reflex

Explanation:

Otitis externa is an inflammation of the outer - ear canal. Pulling on the ear elicits pain in otitis externa as the inflamed outer - ear structures are manipulated. A bulging tympanic membrane is more suggestive of otitis media with effusion or acute otitis media. Erythema of the tympanic membrane can be seen in various ear conditions including otitis media. Nonerythematous external acoustic meatus is not typical of otitis externa which usually causes redness in the external ear canal. Absence of the light reflex is often associated with middle - ear pathology rather than otitis externa.

Answer:

Pain when pulling on the ear