Complication pattern of chronic suppurative otitis media in North Indian subjects

Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) remains a significant otologic condition in India, with possible intracranial and extracranial complications despite advances in therapy. Hence, this retrospective study evaluated 7,940 confirmed CSOM cases, identifying 92 (1.2%) with complications 69.6% intracranial and 47.8% extracranial, with 16 subjects presenting both types and a male-to-female ratio of 2:1. The 21-30 year age group showed the highest involvement (32.6%), with meningitis (32.6%) and subdural abscess (15.2%) as the leading intracranial and mastoiditis (37%) as the most common extracranial complication. Although improved antibiotic and surgical interventions have reduced overall incidence, mortality and morbidity remain elevated due to delayed diagnosis and intervention. Hence, we report the contemporary burden and patterns of CSOM related complications in the Indian population and emphasizing timely management to prevent severe outcomes.