Comparison of Bacteriology Between Geriatric and Adult Rhinosinusitis with and Without NPs

Background: In this study, we attempted to compare the bacteriology of chronic rhinosisusitis (CRS) with and without nasal polyps between geriatric and adult patients. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 751 patients with CRS who underwent bilateral primary functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Before surgery, swab samples were collected from the middle meatus for bacterial cultures using cotton-tipped sticks. Subjects were divided into adult (20 to 64 years, n = 683) and elderly (65 years, n = 68) groups. The results of the bacteria culture were analyzed according to age group and the presence of nasal polyps. Results: The bacterial culture rate was higher in geriatric patients (55.9%) than in adults (44.9%), but the difference was not statistically significant. However, geriatric patients showed a higher bacterial culture rate (57.6%) than adult patients (29.6%) without nasal polyps. This difference was statistically significant. Conclusions: Geriatric patients with CRS exhibited higher bacterial culture rates, particularly on the non-polyp side. These findings suggest a possible age-related susceptibility to microbial colonization, underscoring the need for age-specific infection management strategies.