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Published on: April 14, 2014
[Presumption diagnosis: otomycosis. A 451 patients study]
P Hueso Gutiérrez1, S Jiménez Alvarez, E Gil-Carcedo Sañudo
1Servicio de ORL y PCF, Cátedra de ORL y PCF, Hospital Universitario Río Hortega, Valladolid.
Abstract:
Otomycosis is a common disease. We try to analyze the causative factors for otomycosis in our environment. Our study includes 451 patients with a presumed diagnosis of otomycosis. The patients were included by ear, nose and throat specialist and general doctors; the diagnosis was confirmed in 24.43% and 16.16% respectively. The most common fungal pathogen found was Aspergillus spp. and Candida sp. The high frecuency of Aspergillus Niger may be because of the diferent ways of gathering samples. The abundance of Candida parapsilosis in the samples that came from general doctors may be because the inadequate treatment with topic antibiotics contributes fungal proliferation. We conclude that the causative factors for otomycosis could be avoided or treated. Treatment with antifungal agents is not enought to ensure complete cure, an furthermore the treatment should be aimed to restore the physiology of the external auditory cannal.
Insights
Otomycosis, a common ear infection, is often caused by Aspergillus and Candida fungi. Addressing causative factors and restoring ear canal health is crucial for effective treatment beyond antifungal medication.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Otomycosis is a prevalent external ear infection.
- Diagnosis confirmation rates varied between specialists (24.43%) and general practitioners (16.16%).
- A study analyzed 451 patients with presumed otomycosis to identify causative factors.
Purpose:
- To investigate the specific etiological factors contributing to otomycosis in the local environment.
- To identify the predominant fungal pathogens responsible for otomycosis.
- To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of different medical professionals.
Summary:
- Aspergillus spp. and Candida sp. were the most frequently isolated fungal pathogens.
- Aspergillus Niger's high prevalence may be linked to sample collection methods.
- Candida parapsilosis abundance in samples from general practitioners suggests a role for topical antibiotic misuse in fungal proliferation.
Impact:
- Identifies key fungal agents and potential environmental/iatrogenic causes of otomycosis.
- Highlights the importance of proper diagnostic procedures and sample handling.
- Emphasizes that successful otomycosis treatment requires addressing underlying causes and restoring external auditory canal physiology, not just antifungal therapy.
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