Assessment Of Risk Factors And Identification Of Fungal And Bacterial Agents In Otomycosis At Rural Community Attending A Tertiary Care Hospital

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Otomycosis is a sub-acute or a chronic superficial fungal infection of the external auditory canal.It is one of the frequently encountered fungal infections of the ear. The prevalence of otomycosis is higher intropical and subtropical climates zones. This study was planned to identify the most common organismsinvolved in otomycosis, clinical features and various predisposing factors of the disease in south India.Materials and Methods: Prospective study on 187 confirmed cases of Otomycosis who attended the ENT OPD. Apredesigned proforma was administered to the participants to know the clinical symptoms, predisposingfactors, sociodemographic details, and comorbid conditions. Clinical findings in both ears were recorded.Results: The majority of the study population (31%) were in the age group of 31-40. Around 47% of the studypopulation had a history of manipulation of the external auditory canal. Around 32 % gave the history of theinstallation of either antibiotic drops or steroid drops into the ear. Around 97% of the study population hadblocked, 83% had pain and 77 % had itching. The discharge was present in 47% of the study population. Femaleprevalence was high and more than 88% was unilateral. Aspergillus species and Candida species were morecommonly present in the fungal culture. Around 88% had a bacterial infection along with fungal growth.Conclusion: the diagnosis of Otomycosis must be considered for all cases of ear discharge for prompt andaccurate treatment and to save time and suffering.