International Licensing Examination (ILE) Practice Test

Which condition is commonly caused by prolonged exposure to cold water?

1. Ototoxicity

2. Impact of cerumen

3. Osteoma/exostosis

4. Otitis externa

The correct answer is: Osteoma/exostosis

Prolonged exposure to cold water can lead to the development of osteoma or exostosis, also known as "surfer's ear." This condition is characterized by the abnormal bone growth in the ear canal due to repeated irritation from cold water and wind. When the body is subjected to cold water, it reacts by trying to protect itself; one way it does this is by building up bone in the ear canal. Chronic exposure to these conditions, especially in activities like surfing or diving where individuals are frequently in cold water, leads to the bony growth which can cause narrowing of the ear canal and may eventually lead to hearing loss if untreated. This makes it a specific condition associated with prolonged cold water exposure among the options provided. Other conditions listed, while they may involve the ear, do not have the same direct causative relationship with cold water exposure. Ototoxicity typically refers to damage to the ear caused by toxins, such as certain medications. The impact of cerumen is more related to earwax blockage rather than environmental factors. Otitis externa, or swimmer's ear, is an inflammation or infection of the outer ear canal, which can be caused by water exposure but does not involve the bony changes characteristic of osteoma