Human otoacariasis.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Medical Entomology
• Public Health

Background:

• Aural foreign bodies (FB) are frequently encountered in emergency departments.
• Arthropods represent a significant portion of these foreign bodies.
• Human otoacariasis, specifically tick infestation of the ear canal, has a notable prevalence in certain regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of arthropod aural foreign bodies.
• To identify the common types of arthropods found in the ear canal.
• To describe the clinical presentation, management, and complications of human otoacariasis in Kelantan, Malaysia.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 348 cases of aural foreign bodies at Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital.
• Data collection on the type of foreign body, patient demographics, and removal methods.
• Analysis of arthropod types, with specific focus on ticks and their prevalence.

Main Results:

• Arthropods were identified as the foreign body in 148 out of 348 (42.5%) investigated cases.
• Cockroaches were the most frequently identified arthropod, followed by cattle ticks.
• A high prevalence of tick infestation in the human ear canal (human otoacariasis) was observed, appearing unique to Kelantan.

Conclusions:

• Arthropods are a common cause of aural foreign bodies, necessitating specific diagnostic and management considerations.
• Human otoacariasis presents a unique public health challenge in Kelantan, Malaysia.
• Further research and public awareness are recommended for the prevention and management of ear canal arthropod infestations.