Erysipelas of external ear

Description

A rapidly expanding diffuse superficial dermal streptococcal infection involving the external ear. In contrast with infective otitis externa, the skin of the auricle is often initially healthy except at a point of entry for beta-haemolytic streptococci (commonly at a fissure behind the ear or where the ear lobule is attached to the side of the head) and systemic features including fever and malaise are common.

Exclusions from above levels

• JB40 – postpartum or puerperal erysipelas
• EB30 – Eosinophilic cellulitis
• NE83.1 – Infection arising from device, implant or graft, not elsewhere classified