Adult infections of the ear can involve the external ear, the middle ear and the inner ear. Cellulitis of the aruicle, swimmer's ear, malignant external otitis media, bullous myringitis and labyrinthitis are common infections of the adult ear. While otitis media occurs in adults, it is more common in children.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis of the auricle is an infection of the cartilagenous parts of the ear, and is a common infection of the outer ear. It is associated with piercings and injuries to the outer ear. It may lead to perichondritis, or infection of the surrounding areas, and deformity, according to the University of Texas Medical Branch.
Malignant Persistent External Otitis Media
According to FamilyPracticeNotebook.com, this condition, also known as necroizing otits externa, is seen in immunocompromised and diabetic patients. It may evolve into osteomyelitis, or a bone infection that begins at the floor of the ear canal and may extend to the middle ear and the base of the skull.
Swimmer's Ear
A common infection, swimmer's ear, also known as otits externa, usually happens due to excessive moisture in the ear. According to MayoClinic.com, it is associated with itching, pain, tenderness, redness and swelling of the ear canal. A pus-like discharge may also be present. Hearing may be impaired as the condition progresses.
Other causes include dermatitis from topical drugs, hearing aid materials and psoriasis. According to an article published in the "Journal of Laryngology and Otology," mite infestation resulting in otitis externa has been seen in workers who process poultry.
Myringitis
According to the Merck Manuals, myringitis is a type of otitis media in which blister-like lesions form on the tympanic membrane, or ear drum. Viruses and bacteria--particularly Streptococcus pneumoniae--or mycoplasma, a special type of bacteria, are common causes. Ear pain may last for 24 to 48 hours after beginning suddenly, and persist for 24 to 48 hours. If there is fever and loss of hearing, infection by a bacteria, as opposed to a virus or mycoplasma, is suspected.
Labyrinthitis
Labyrinthitis is a swelling in the inner ear that usually occurs after an upper respiratory tract infection. It can be caused by a virus or bacterial agent. It is associated with dizziness, jerking of the eyes, hearing loss, nausea and ringing in the ears.
