What is the recommended management for acute otitis externa with discharge and ear pain?

The recommended management for acute otitis externa with discharge and ear pain is topical antibiotics and steroids. This approach is effective because it directly targets the infection and helps to reduce inflammation in the ear canal. Topical antibiotics can effectively eliminate the bacteria causing the infection, while the addition of steroids helps to alleviate the swelling and discomfort associated with the condition.

When treating acute otitis externa, it is important to administer medications that can both address the underlying infection and provide symptomatic relief. The use of topical formulations is preferred in these cases, as they deliver the medication directly to the site of infection, allowing for a higher concentration of the drug to act locally, which can lead to faster recovery.

In contrast, oral antibiotics may not be necessary unless there are signs of a more widespread infection or if the local treatment fails. Warm compresses, while sometimes beneficial for symptomatic relief, do not address the underlying infection and inflammation effectively. Acetic acid can be useful in some cases, particularly for its antimicrobial properties, but it is generally used as an adjunct rather than as a standalone treatment. Thus, the combination of topical antibiotics and steroids is the most comprehensive and effective management strategy for acute otitis externa in this context.