Best Evidence Topics

Systemic or topical antibiotics in otitis externa

Report By: Fiona Wisniacki - SpR Emergency Medicine
Institution: St Marys Hospital, Paddington London
Date Submitted: 9th September 2000
Last Modified: 23rd August 2006
Status: Red (incomplete)

Three Part Question

In [a systemically well adult with otitis externa] do [oral antibiotics vs topical] offer [less time to recovery and /or less side effects]?