During the past 2 years we have used ceftazidime (Fortaz), a third-generation cephalosporin, in the treatment of eight patients with progressive necrotizing “malignant” external otitis. Ceftazidime is very active against Pseudomonas species and provides penetration into the CSF. Our results suggest that this medication has several advantages over the previously recommended combinations of aminoglycosides and semisynthetic penicillins, including improved cure rate, lower toxicity, and simpler administration schedules. We review our experience with ceftazidime in the treatment of eight patients.
ChandlerJR. Malignant external otitis: Further considerations. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol1977; 86: 417–28.
4.
StraussM. Current therapy of malignant external otitis. Presented at the meeting of the American Academy of Otolaryngology, Washington, DC, September 1988.
5.
NeuHC. Antimicrobial agents for infections of the ear, nose and throat-head and neck. Adv Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg1987; 1: 55–90.
6.
NadolJBJr.. Histopathology of Pseudomonas osteomyelitis of the temporal bone starting as malignant external otitis. Am J Otolaryngol1980; 1: 359–71.
7.
MowerAGBaumJ. Chemotaxis and polymorphonuclear leukocytes from patients with diabetes mellitus. N Engl J Med1971; 284: 621–7.
8.
MolenaarDMPalumboPJWilsonWRRittsRE. Leukocyte chemotaxis in diabetic patients compared with their first degree relatives. Diabetes1976; 25: 880–93.
9.
O'SullivanJDicksonRIBlokmanisARobertsFJKaanK. The pathogenesis, differential diagnosis and treatment of malignant otitis externa. J Otolaryngol1978; 7: 297–303.
10.
CohenDFriedmanP. The diagnostic criteria of malignant external otitis. J Laryngol Otol1987; 101: 216–21.
