Otology is a vast science. Several books have been exclusively been written on this science. A separate volume is usually devoted to this science in standard otolaryngology text books. Currently there is a shift towards compiling books on smaller topics. This book is such an attempt to devote a small manuscript towards the topic “Diseases of External auditory canal”. Advantages of such smaller books on single topics include: 1. It serves as an efficient tool in modular learning 2. Makes the learning process less daunting 3. Size of the book may not serve as a limitation to the amount of content 4. It also becomes cheaper for the student because a whole text book need not be purchased just to read a single chapter Lot of the material provided in this book are compiled from the author’s websites which are available in public domain: www.drtbalu.com www.drtbalu.co.in Recent trends in managing diseases of external auditory canal have also been included. The author has taken lot of steps to ensure objectivity while authoring this book. Some of the opinion expressed in this book are entirely the author’s and hence not backed up by references.

In preparing the material for this book, I took the advice of my students who generously shared their views and opinions with me. I was told that it would be preferable to have images of the various diseases with legends describing the disease. Students would be able to learn and retain the inf- mation more successfully if the material was accompanied by pictures and schematic drawings. Recent advances in technology have made it possible to photograph regions that are difcult to view with the naked eye, such as the ear, nose, throat, nasopharynx, and larynx – all the areas of otorhinolaryngology. Such an illustrated text in this feld is important and necessary for teaching purposes. In this book I tried to compile images of the basic conditions that are commonly seen in general practice and to give the reader a visual survey with a brief description of the condition. I added tables and schematic drawings in order to provide practical information. It is not the purpose of this book to be a comprehensive textbook, since many textbooks are already available with more detailed information of the conditions illustrated here. This book is primarily intended for medical students, family and general practitioners, and ENT trainees. It may also serve as basic reading material for those in allied specialties. I hope my colleagues fnd this book useful and it contributes toward their teaching purposes.

An integrated otologic and dermatologic text that covers the diverse diseases which affect the external ear. Reviews techniques for examination and diagnosis, and provides recommendations for treatment of disorders of the external ear.

A reference for tackling diagnostic dilemmas that pathologists and clinicians encounter when assessing pediatric head and neck disease.