Otoscopy (exam of the ear) is best done with a binocular microscope that provides adequate lighting, depth perception, and the ability to instrument the ear to comfortably remove the fungus. Findings range from scattered saprophytic fungal colonies of various colors, causing no symptoms, to densely packed fungal debris, often intermixed with cerumen (wax), filling the entire canal and involving the tympanic membrane (eardrum). The fungus can cling to the skin and tympanic membrane, presumably because of invading hyphae, and can require significant time to accomplish complete removal. Cause== Most fungal ear infections are caused by Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium and Candida albicans.Otomycosis commonly results from overuse of antibacterial ear drops, which should never be used for more than 7 days. In such cases the fungus is an opportunist that results from antibacterial suppression of the normal bacterial flora, combined with the steroid the drops also contain.
Otomycosis
Onychomycosis
Dermatomycosis
Protothecosis
Botryomycosis
Phycomycosis
Zygomycosis
Lobomycosis