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Epidemiology of chronic suppurative otitis media in Saudi children
H Muhaimeid1, S Zakzouk, S Bafaqeeh
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, King Abdul Aziz University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Insights
This study surveyed 6421 Saudi children, finding a 1.5% prevalence of chronic ear disease. Central perforations were the most common type, with some cases showing active ear discharge.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Epidemiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is a significant health concern in children globally.
- Understanding its prevalence in specific populations is crucial for targeted interventions.
- Saudi Arabia has limited epidemiological data on pediatric CSOM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of chronic ear disease in Saudi children.
- To identify the types and characteristics of chronic ear disease in the studied population.
- To compare findings with international data and discuss associated risk factors.
Main Methods:
- An epidemiological survey conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Clinical examination and otoscopic inspection of 6421 children (2 months to 12 years).
- Hearing evaluation using a memory screening audiometer by an audiologist.
Main Results:
- A total of 94 children (1.5%) were diagnosed with chronic ear disease.
- Central perforation was the most prevalent type (n=88), followed by acquired cholesteatoma/posterosuperior retraction (n=5) and congenital cholesteatoma (n=1).
- Sixteen children (17% of those with chronic ear disease) presented with active ear discharge.
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of chronic ear disease in Saudi children is 1.5%, with central perforations being the most common form.
- Findings highlight the need for further research into predisposing factors like environmental, genetic, and congenital anomalies.
- Comparison with international data suggests potential regional variations in CSOM epidemiology.
Abstract:
An epidemiological survey was carried out in Riyadh to establish the prevalence of chronic suppurative otitis media in Saudi children. 6421 children aged 2 months to 12 years were examined clinically, their ears were inspected by otoscopic examination by an ENT specialist, and the evaluation of hearing was undertaken by an audiologist using a memory screening audiometer (Madson 84-11). Ninety-four children (1.5%) had chronic ear disease being of the following types: congenital cholesteatoma (n = 1), acquired cholesteatoma and posterosuperior retraction (n = 5), and central perforation (n = 88), 16 of which had active ear discharge. These results were compared with other results in developed and developing countries. The factors predisposing to or associated with chronic ear disease such as environmental, genetic, congenital ear anomalies and cleft palate have been discussed.