Publication:

Bacteriological and mycological profile of chronic suppurative otitis media

Background Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is the chronic inflammation of the middle ear cleft. It can cause permanent perforation and is famous for its recurrence and persistent infection. Haphazard use of antibiotics and increasing use of newer ones has led to persistent change in microbial flora. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify the bacteria and fungi causing chronic suppurative otitis media and to determine the antibiotic sensitivity pattern of the bacterial isolates.

Methods This is a prospective cross sectional study was done in 70 patients of chronic suppurative otitis media presenting with active ear discharge. Sterile swabs were used to collect pus from discharging ear and sent for culture sensitivity. All organisms isolated were identified according to standard microbiological methods.Antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed using Kirby- Bauer disc diffusion method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines.

Results Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the most common organisms isolated in this study. Fungi isolated most commonly was Aspergillus species. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was most sensitive to Piperacillin-Tazobactam, and Gentamycin. Staphylococcus aureus was most sensitive to Linezolid and vancomycin and least sensitive to Erythromycin.

Conclusions Staphylococcus aureus was the most common bacteria isolated and Aspergillus spp was the most common fungi isolated from patients with CSOM. Judicial use of antibiotics is necessary for the prevention of development of antibiotic resistance.