Publication:

Antibacterial susceptibility profiling of otitis media isolates: a tertiary care centre based retrospective study

Background Otitis media is an inflammation of the middle ear, posing a significant public health burden across all age groups. Timely identification of causative organisms and their antibiotic susceptibility is essential for effective treatment and for curbing antibiotic resistance.

Objectives To determine the bacterial profile and antibacterial susceptibility patterns of isolates from otitis media cases in a tertiary care centre.

Methods A retrospective study was conducted on 576 ear discharge samples from clinically diagnosed otitis media cases between January and December 2024. Standard microbiological techniques were employed for culture and identification. Antibacterial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method in accordance with CLSI guidelines.

Results Of the 576 samples, 385 (66.8%) showed microbial growth, with bacterial isolates identified in 349 (90.6%) samples. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the predominant organism (50.5%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (30.4%) and Enterobacterales (15%). The isolates showed varied susceptibility to commonly used antibiotics, with notable resistance to Ciprofloxacin, Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, and Aminoglycosides.

Conclusion The findings emphasize seasonal variations and evolving trends in the bacterial aetiology of otitis media and the importance of continuous surveillance of antibacterial susceptibility patterns. These data are essential for guiding and formulating effective antimicrobial stewardship strategies in clinical practice.