Warning

Fungal otitis externa

Treatment with topical clotrimazole drops should be commenced and should continue until 2 weeks after the symptoms resolve. Be aware that in many cases fungi are grown on ear swabs in patients that have previously been treated with topical antibiotics and are not necessarily causative. 

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 07/05/2025

Next review date: 07/05/2028

Author(s): Consultant ENT Surgeon and ENT Clinical Lead; ENT Consultant; and ST7, ENT.

Version: 1.0

Approved By: ENT, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

Reviewer name(s): Clinical Director ENT / Head and Neck Surgery.