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Topical antibiotic induced otomycosis

Alexis Jackman1, Robert Ward, Max April

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Neck York University Medical Center, New York, NY 10021, USA.

International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|May 12, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Topical antibiotic drops, particularly ofloxacin, may increase the incidence of otomycosis (fungal ear infection) in children with persistent otorrhea. Early suspicion and appropriate antifungal treatment are crucial for resolution.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Otomycosis, a fungal ear infection, was rarely diagnosed as a cause of persistent otorrhea before 1999.
  • An increasing incidence of otomycosis has been observed in pediatric otolaryngology outpatient settings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the contribution of ototopical antibiotic drops to the development of otomycosis in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective chart review was conducted for patients diagnosed with otomycosis between June 1999 and September 2001.
  • Twenty-six pediatric patients (17 months–29 years) diagnosed with otomycosis after treatment with topical ofloxacin for presumed bacterial otorrhea were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • All 26 patients had used ototopical antibiotics, with ofloxacin used in every case for presumed bacterial otorrhea.
  • Diagnosis of otomycosis was based on clinical and microbiological findings.
  • Antifungal therapy was successful in all 26 cases, resolving the otorrhea.

Conclusions:

  • Physicians should maintain a high suspicion for otomycosis in cases of persistent otorrhea, especially after topical antibiotic treatment.
  • While ofloxacin is effective for bacterial otorrhea, its use appears to increase the incidence of otomycosis.
  • Careful post-treatment follow-up is warranted with the use of topical antibiotic drops.

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