[Primary tuberculous otitis media]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Tuberculous otitis media (TOM) is a rare condition, accounting for less than 1% of all otitis media cases.
• Typically, TOM arises secondary to a pulmonary tuberculosis focus.
• Primary TOM, originating without a known pulmonary source, is exceptionally infrequent.

Observation:

• This report details a rare case of primary tuberculous otitis media in an immunocompetent patient.
• The patient presented with persistent suppurative otitis media, a common symptom that masked the underlying tuberculous etiology.
• Diagnostic challenges were encountered due to the atypical presentation of this rare disease.

Findings:

• The case underscores the diagnostic difficulty associated with primary tuberculous otitis media.
• Despite its rarity, TOM should be considered in the differential diagnosis of persistent suppurative otitis media.
• A comprehensive bibliographic review covered clinical, etiopathogenic, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of TOM.

Implications:

• This case emphasizes the need for heightened clinical suspicion for tuberculous otitis media in endemic areas.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and preventing complications.
• The findings contribute to understanding the clinical spectrum and diagnostic considerations for rare mycobacterial ear infections.