Otitis is a general term for inflammation or infection of the ear, in both humans and other animals.

It is subdivided into the following:

Otitis externa or External Otitis - involves the outer ear and ear canal. In External Otitis, the ear hurts when touched or pulled. This condition is often called "swimmer's ear". For more information, See Otitis externa
Otitis media or Middle Ear Infection- involves the middle ear. In Otitis media, the ear is infected or clogged with fluid behind the ear drum, in the normally air-filled middle-ear space. This very common childhood infection sometimes requires a surgical procedure called "myringotomy and tube insertion". For more information, See Otitis media
Otitis interna or Labyrinthitis- involves the inner ear. The Inner Ear includes sense organs for balance and hearing. When the inner ear is inflamed, vertigo ("room spinning") is a major symptom. For more information, See Otitis interna