Ear & Nose Problems
Assumptions
The student understands the anatomy, function and physiology of the organs and tissues of the head and
neck.
Objectives
1. Discuss the differential diagnosis of ear pain (otalgia).
 consider infection, trauma, neoplasm, inflammation, vascular
 contrast etiologies in children versus adults
2. Discuss the diagnosis, treatment and complications of acute and chronic otitis media.
 include indications for myringotomy tube placement
3. Outline the evaluation of a patient presenting with hearing loss;
 differentiate between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss
 identify treatable causes.
4. Outline the evaluation of a patient presenting with tinnitus.
 describe the potential etiologies and management
5. Describe the risk factors, diagnosis and management of epistaxis.
 describe the indications and techniques for nasal packing.
6. Discuss the causes and mechanisms of chronic rhinitis/rhinorrhea.
 outline the evaluation and management of chronic rhinitis.
7. Describe the indications for tonsillectomy.
8. Outline the evaluation of a patient with a salivary gland mass.
 describe the potential etiologies
 describe the common tumors of the salivary gland and their management.
9. Discuss the potential etiologies of oral cavity pain.
 include inflammation, infection, neoplasm
Problems
1. A 55-year-old woman presents a swelling in the parotid area.
 What additional data should be obtained from the patient’s history?
 What findings should be looked for on physical exam?
 What is the initial testing and management plan?
2. A 77-year-old woman presents with ongoing nasal bleeding.
 What additional data should be obtained from the patient’s history and physical exam?
 What is the initial management?
Prevention
1. Chewing tobacco as risk for oral cavity neoplasm.
2. Occupational risks for hearing loss.