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Fungi from otitis media of agricultural field workers
Abstract:
Twenty four fungi were isolated from ear wax or otitis media of agricultural field workers, of which 18 are being reported for the first time from India. Direct observation, revealed the presence of hyphal fragments, spores of Alternaria, Bipolaris, conidial head of Aspergillus, smut teliospores and pollen. Spores of only four fungi, Alternaria humicola, Aspergillus niveus, Bipolaris spicifera and Fusarium moniliforme germinated in otitis media at 37 degrees C, and their germination was affected by relative humidity. Alternaria humicola and Aspergillus niveus appeared to be the causative agents of otomycosis, and otitis media is fungistatic in nature.
Insights
This study identified fungi in agricultural workers with ear infections, finding Alternaria humicola and Aspergillus niveus as key causes of otomycosis. The research highlights the impact of humidity on fungal growth in otitis media.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Microbiology
Background:
- Otitis media and otomycosis are common ear conditions.
- Agricultural field workers may be exposed to environmental fungi.
- Fungal infections of the ear can lead to significant discomfort and hearing issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and identify fungi from ear wax and otitis media in agricultural field workers.
- To determine the potential of isolated fungi to cause otomycosis.
- To investigate the effect of temperature and humidity on fungal germination in otitis media.
Main Methods:
- Fungal isolation from ear wax and otitis media samples.
- Microscopic examination for fungal elements.
- In vitro germination studies at 37°C under varying relative humidity.
- Identification of fungal species using morphological characteristics.
Main Results:
- Twenty-four fungal species were isolated; 18 were new reports from India.
- Alternaria, Bipolaris, Aspergillus, smut, and pollen were observed.
- Alternaria humicola, Aspergillus niveus, Bipolaris spicifera, and Fusarium moniliforme germinated in otitis media at 37°C.
- Relative humidity significantly affected fungal germination.
- Alternaria humicola and Aspergillus niveus were identified as probable causative agents of otomycosis.
Conclusions:
- Otitis media in agricultural workers can be caused by environmental fungi, notably Alternaria humicola and Aspergillus niveus.
- Fungal germination in otitis media is influenced by environmental factors like humidity.
- The study suggests otitis media may have fungistatic properties, inhibiting fungal growth.