Cellulitis of external ear

**Definition:** A diffuse subacute bacterial infection of the soft tissues of the external ear, most commonly due to beta-haemolytic streptococci. It may arise within an apparently healthy external ear but may complicate both inflammatory and infective forms of otitis externa.

**Exclusions:** - Erysipelas of external ear - Staphylococcal cellulitis of skin - Streptococcal cellulitis of skin