Publication:

A study of microbial gamut and antibiograms in chronic suppurative otitis media

Background The aim of the study was to discern the patterns in microbial diversity and the resistogram among the patients suffering from CSOM.

Methods A total number of 100 ear swabs were investigated for the present study. Their gram staining, direct microscopy with KOH, culture sensitivity, and biochemical tests were carried out to identify the organisms and to know their sensitivity pattern. All the swabs were collected from clinically diagnosed cases of chronic suppurative otitis media visiting otolaryngology outpatient department of tertiary care hospital. The study period was one year, from January 2016 to December 2017.

Results Out of total 100 cases, 90 were culture positives, 6 showed no growth and 4 were skin contaminants (mirococci). Out of 90 culture positives, fungal culture was positive in 5 (5.5%) while combined bacteria and fungi obtained in 18 (20%) cases and only bacteria in 67 (74.4%) cases. Among the aerobic bacterial isolates, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common bacteria isolated from the bacterial culture (n=36; 34.95%) followed by Staphylococcus aureus (n=28; 27.18%) and Proteus (n=13; 12.62%). Among the fungal isolates, Aspergillus niger was predominant followed by Candida albicans & Aspergillus flavus. Amikacin and imipenem were found to be the most effective antibiotics with low resistance rates.

Conclusions The present study gave an insight into the bacteriological profile of the cases of CSOM and their antibiotic sensitivity patterns. This in turn will ensure rational and judicious use of antibiotics and thus prevent emergence of resistant bugs and also the complications associated with CSOM.