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Concomitant otomycosis and dermatomycoses: a clinical and microbiological study
Muge Ozcan1, K Murat Ozcan, Aydin Karaarslan
1Ankara Numune Education and Research Hospital 1 ENT Clinic, Yucetepe sit A blok 59/6 06580 Anittepe, Ankara, Turkey. mugeozcan@yahoo.com
Summary
Fungal ear infections (otomycosis) often recur. This study found that co-occurring fungal skin infections (dermatomycoses) are common and may lead to recurrent otomycosis through self-inoculation.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Otomycosis frequently recurs despite prolonged treatment.
- The clinical significance of co-existing otomycosis and dermatomycoses remains understudied in English literature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of dermatomycoses in patients diagnosed with otomycosis.
- To assess the clinical and microbiological importance of concurrent fungal infections of the ear and skin.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 52 patients with otomycosis was examined for the presence of dermatomycoses.
- Clinical and microbiological evaluations were performed to identify fungal pathogens.
Main Results:
- Dermatomycoses were identified in 36.5% of patients with otomycosis.
- The most frequent pathogen for otomycosis was Aspergillus niger, while Candida albicans predominated in dermatomycoses.
- Identical fungal pathogens were found in both ear and skin infections in 47.4% of patients with co-existing conditions, with Aspergillus niger being the most common shared pathogen.
Conclusions:
- Autoinoculation from untreated dermatomycoses to the ear canal is a potential cause of recurrent otomycosis.
- Investigating and simultaneously treating dermatomycoses in patients with otomycosis is crucial for preventing recurrence of both conditions.