Prophylaxis of predisposed otitis externa.

Evaluation, in the guinea pig ear, of fourteen water repellent or therapeutic compounds has resulted in the recommended use of 360 Medical Fluid as a prophylactic agent for those persons with a high risk of otitis externa. This compound was found to adhere well, be easy to apply and was nonirritating. Use of this material prevented adverse bacterial growth in ear canals exposed to water for up to seven days. The significance of maintaining the normal Gram positive bacterial flora in the external ear canal and the role of cerumen in maintaining a healthy meatal surface is discussed. A system for monitoring the health of the ear canal through measurement of the Gram positive/Gram negative bacterial ratio is suggested.