Swimmer's Ear Complication Leads to Emergency Surgery for Florida Boy

St. Petersburg, FL – A recent case at an area hospital highlights the potential dangers of untreated swimmer’s ear. An 11-year-old boy presented with significant swelling behind his ear, a complication known as a retroauricular abscess. "This is a relatively uncommon complication," explained the attending physician, whose family consented to the sharing of the case study. "But it underscores the importance of seeking medical attention when ear infections worsen." The physician described the diagnosis process, involving a CT scan which revealed the abscess. Treatment involved drainage of the pus and IV fluids. The infection was identified as MSSA, not MRSA. The physician concluded by advising viewers on how to prevent swimmer's ear, such as drying ears thoroughly after swimming and avoiding the use of Q-tips. This case serves as a valuable reminder of the potential severity of seemingly minor ear infections.