ABSTRACT
Background.Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is still a significant health problem in developing countries. Therefore; it was pertinent to determine the local Malawian microbiology in order to guide adequate treatment; avoid complications; and provide records for future reference. Aim. The study sought to determine the CSOM-causing microorganisms at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre; Malawi; and establish their relationship signs and symptoms; and with the demographic pattern of the study.Methods.This was a hospital-based cross-sectional descriptive study carried out at the ENT outpatient clinic and the Microbiology Department of Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital.The sample comprised 104 patients with unilateral or bilateral active CSOM; who met the inclusion criteria. All patients were evaluated through a detailed history and clinical examination. Pus samples from draining ears were collected by aspiration with a sterile pipette. The specimens were immediately sent for microbiological analysis. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.The study found that Proteus mirabilis; Pseudomonas aeruginosa; and Staphylococcus aureus were the most prevalent aerobic bacteria; while Bacteroides spp. and Peptostreptococcus spp. were the commonest anaerobic bacteria causing CSOM. These CSOM-causing microorganisms were predominant among males aged 18 years and below. Some CSOM-causing microorganisms were-significantly more so than the others-characteristically associated with each of the following clinical features: quantity of pus drainage; mode of onset; otalgia; hearing loss; location of tympanic membrane perforation; and mucosal appearance