What is the term for inflammation of the outer ear?

The term for inflammation of the outer ear is otitis externa. This condition involves irritation and inflammation of the external auditory canal, which can be caused by various factors such as infections, prolonged exposure to moisture, or injury. Recognizing this specific term is important in the context of nursing and medical care, as it helps healthcare professionals identify and treat ear conditions effectively.

In contrast, otitis media refers to inflammation of the middle ear, which is a different anatomical area and condition. Strabismus is a vision condition in which the eyes do not properly align with each other, while glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to high eye pressure. Each of these terms pertains to distinct health issues unrelated to the outer ear, further emphasizing why otitis externa is the correct reference for outer ear inflammation.