Topical
The topical formulations included drops, creams, ointments, powders,
solutions, lotions and sprays which were given alone or in combination.
Eardrops were prescribed in 38% of studies, solutions in 18%, creams
in 15%, ointments in 2% and powders in 2%. Among eardrops,
clotrimazole-containing drops were used most frequently (33%). Among
topical solutions, antiseptic-containing ones were the most popular
(45%). 1% clotrimazole cream was preferred over 1% clotrimazole drops
in one study as it required a single application. The use of impregnated
strips, wicks and gauze was mentioned in a few studies. Nagl M et al
(14) used a cotton strip soaked in N-Chlorotaurine and dexamethasone
which was changed daily for 8 days in a recalcitrant case. Arifullah et
al (15) impregnated gauze with 1% clotrimazole lotion or cream.
Dorasala SP & Dorasala S (1) introduced medicated absorbable gelatin
sponge pieces (Gelfoam) in layers under the microscope and advised
patients to instil a combination of antifungal and antibiotic ear drops
for 3 days.