 Acute otitis externa AOE is defined as a diffuse inflammation of the external ear canal, which may also involve the pinna andor the tympanic membrane. AOE is one of the most common infections encountered by otolaryngologists, pediatricians and family physicians. The reported annual incidence of AOE is between 1:100 and 1:250 in the general population with large seasonal and regional variations. Diagnosis of AOE requires rapid onset generally within 48 hours of symptoms and signs of ear canal inflammation which includes: A otalgia often severe, itching or fullness, sometimes accompanied by reduced hearing or jaw pain; B tenderness of the tragus andor pinna; and C diffuse ear canal edema with or without erythema, sometimes accompanied by ear discharge. 