Otomycosis in a tertiary care hospital with clinical features and predisposing factors

Introduction: Otomycosis is an acute, subacute or chronic superficial fungal infection of external auditory canal, commonly seen in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is a common problem in the warm and humid areas and among Rural community. The commonly found causative fungi include Aspergillus and Candida species. Proper identification of causative agent is mandatory in order to prevent recurrences and complications. Material and methods: A total of 50 cases of symptomatic patients suspected to be of otomycosis were studied. Samples were collected on two sterile cotton swabs. Direct examination of the specimen was carried out by Gram’s stain and 10% KOH mount. All samples were inoculated on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar. Identification of fungi were done as per the standard protocol. Results: Mycological examination yielded fungal isolates from 35 samples (70%) from a total of 50 clinically diagnosed cases of otomycosis. 9 cases were found to have contamination or bacterial isolates. Aspergillus species was the predominant fungi followed by Candida spp and Penicillium. In our study male preponderance was seen with 52% cases than female with 48% cases. Incidence of otomycosis was high in age group of 15-35 years followed by 35-55 years of age group. Conclusion: Otomycosis commonly presented with decreased hearing, itching, earache and otorrhea. Higher practice of self cleaning and using home remedies and ear drops to get relief from sensation of blocked ear has raised incidence of otomycosis.