Ear infection

Diagnostic Evaluation

Otitis externa or media causes pruritus, pain, discharge, and head tilt, often driven by allergy, parasites, bacteria, or foreign bodies. Imaging is mainly to assess complications or deeper disease. Radiographs can evaluate bulla changes but are less sensitive. CT best evaluates bony ear structures and chronic otitis media extension. MRI is for suspected intracranial involvement or soft-tissue spread. Ultrasound is not typical for ear diagnosis. Nuclear studies are rarely relevant.