Pinna perichondritis is outer ear cartilage inflammation arising from trauma and subsequent infection. This condition requires prompt and effective intervention to prevent external ear disfigurement and reduce the risk of soft tissue and systemic infection. Auricular inflammation has numerous causes, including relapsing polychondritis, cellulitis, otitis externa, and herpes zoster oticus. Pinna perichondritis differs from these clinical entities as it typically spares the cartilage-lacking earlobe.Pinna perichondritis’ most common etiology is trauma from transcartilaginous high ear piercing. However, cases involving other minor trauma sources, such as acupuncture and insect bites, have also been reported. Penetrating ear trauma results in cartilage microfracturing and detachment of its associated perichondrium, causing devascularization, necrosis, and the development of a potential space for serous fluid, blood, or pus accumulation.The 2 most common organisms that can aggravate the condition are Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, with the former being more likely to cause an abscess warranting drainage. Fluoroquinolones provide antipseudomonal and antistaphylococcal coverage and are thus recommended for medically treating this condition. Fluoroquinolone administration may likewise accompany incision and drainage of an auricular abscess, with cultures appropriately obtained and the potential space closed with a bolster dressing or through-and-through mattress sutures.This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to enhance the learner’s competence when evaluating and managing pinna perichondritis. Participants can expect improved proficiency in early diagnosis and intervention, resulting in better patient outcomes and increased ability to collaborate effectively within interprofessional teams.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/132617
- Start Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- End Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- Credit Details: AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.0 hours
Nursing: 1.0 hours
Pharmacy: 1.0 hours - MOC Credit Details: ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABS)
ABPATH - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABPATH)
ABIM - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Medical Knowledge (ABIM)
ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABS)
ABP - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment (ABP)
ABOHNS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABOHNS) - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: Variable
- Measured Outcome: Learner Knowledge, Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Directly Provided
- Registration: Open to all
- Specialty: Adolescent Medicine, All Practice Areas (e.g. ethics), General Otolaryngology, General Pediatrics, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Otology, Pediatric Emergency Medicine