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[Otomycosis: etiology and analysis of predisposing factors]
Abstract:
An otomycosis was found in 80 cases of external otitis on a total of 132. Itching was the characteristic beginning, rapidly followed by pain, conductive hearing loss, tympanic perforation. Aspergillus was isolated in 81.7% of cases: in particular, A. niger in 67.1% of cases. A. flavus in 13.4% A. fumigatus in 1.2%. Candida albicans was isolated in 11% of cases. A statistical analysis based on chi 2 test was performed to evaluate the role of possible predisposing factors. Highly significant factors resulted to be working in gardens (P less than 0.005) or using mechanical removing devices. Not significant resulted to be swimming, water irrigations or antibiotic therapies: however infirmities were often not reliable. The above mentioned highly significant factors seem to be able to determinate the overlaying of otomycosis.
Insights
Otomycosis, a fungal infection of the ear, affects 80 of 132 external otitis cases. Working in gardens and using ear-cleaning devices are significant risk factors for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Otomycosis is a common fungal infection affecting the external ear canal.
- External otitis encompasses various inflammatory conditions of the outer ear, often with diverse etiologies.
- Fungal infections, particularly otomycosis, can present with characteristic symptoms and require specific diagnostic approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of otomycosis in patients with external otitis.
- To identify the specific fungal species responsible for otomycosis in the studied population.
- To evaluate potential predisposing factors associated with the development of otomycosis.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 132 cases diagnosed with external otitis.
- Microbiological cultures were performed to isolate and identify fungal pathogens.
- Statistical analysis, including the chi-squared test, was employed to assess the significance of predisposing factors.
Main Results:
- Otomycosis was diagnosed in 80 out of 132 (60.6%) cases of external otitis.
- Aspergillus species were the most frequently isolated fungi (81.7%), with Aspergillus niger being predominant (67.1%).
- Significant predisposing factors included working in gardens (P < 0.005) and the use of mechanical ear-cleaning devices.
Conclusions:
- Otomycosis is a frequent complication of external otitis, with Aspergillus species being the primary causative agents.
- Occupational and behavioral factors, such as gardening and mechanical ear cleaning, play a significant role in the development of otomycosis.
- Understanding these risk factors is crucial for implementing preventive strategies against fungal ear infections.