Physical examination maneuver
Physical Exam
Ear Inspection
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Video coming September 2026
How to Perform
Inspect the auricle and surrounding tissues for size, shape, position, and symmetry, and for any deformity, swelling, redness, lesions, or discharge. Note the condition of the skin and of the external auditory meatus, and inspect behind the ear over the mastoid. Move the auricle and press on the tragus, noting any tenderness.
How to Interpret
Showing 3 of 6 findings
Acute Otitis Media
Bulging tympanic membrane (eardrum balloons outward with loss of normal landmarks) on otoscopy
Rule in
Very helpful
Rule out
—
Evidence:Strong
Distinctly immobile tympanic membrane on pneumatic otoscopy
Rule in
Very helpful
Rule out
—
Evidence:Strong
Tympanic membrane colour on otoscopy (cloudy or distinctly red vs normal)
Rule in
Very helpful
Rule out
Helpful
Evidence:Strong