Childhood suppurative otitis media in Abakaliki: isolated microbes and in vitro antibiotic sensitivity pattern

U Nnebe-agumadu1, O Okike, I Orji

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Ebonyi State University/Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria. ucagums@yahoo.com

Insights

Suppurative otitis media (SOM) in Nigerian children is often caused by Pseudomonas. Ciprofloxacin and Gentamicin are effective treatments, particularly where lab access is limited.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Otolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Suppurative otitis media (SOM) is a prevalent pediatric condition in Nigeria.
  • Effective management is crucial to prevent chronic ear infections, especially in resource-limited settings.
  • This study reviews SOM cases at Ebonyi State University Teaching Hospital (EBSUTH) to guide clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the causative bacteria of SOM in children in Abakaliki.
  • To determine the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of these bacteria.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective analysis of pediatric SOM cases managed at EBSUTH over two years.
  • Inclusion criteria: children aged 0-18 years with SOM.
  • Data collected included ear swab cultures and patient case files.

Main Results:

  • Sixty-five patients were reviewed; 73% were under five years old.
  • Pseudomonas species were the most common pathogen (57.4%), followed by Klebsiella (16.4%) and Proteus (11.5%).
  • Ciprofloxacin (60%) and Gentamicin (58%) showed the highest sensitivity rates among tested antibiotics.

Conclusions:

  • Antibiotic treatment protocols for pediatric SOM should prioritize Ciprofloxacin or Gentamicin.
  • These agents are recommended due to their efficacy and availability, especially in areas lacking advanced laboratory diagnostics or specialist care.
Abstract

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