DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2020.v08i02.018

Pages: 448-453

Background: Otomycosis is the mycological infection of external auditory canal, which is common throughout the world. Its incidence differs in various geographical regions due to the different climatic conditions. To define otomycosis and determine clinical and pathological profiles of the organisms causing otomycosis in Western Uttar Pradesh and to explore specific predisposing factors and targeted treatment. Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, a total of 100 immunocompetent individuals clinically suspected to have otomycosis were recruited from May 2018 to May 2019. Specimens were collected using sterile swabs. All the specimens were subjected to direct examination using 10% KOH, and culture in SDA (Sabouraud Dextrose Agar). Results: Compulsive cleaning of external ear with hard objects (42%), dirty water entering the ear (29%), instillation of mustard oil (22%) and use of topical antibiotic ear drops without prescription (7%), were mainly implicated in otomycosis. Aspergillus was 68%, Candida was 16%, Penicillium was 12% and Rhizopus was 3%. In aspergillus spp., A. nigra (48%) was the most common, while A. fumigatus complex (35%) and A. flavus complex (17%) followed behind. Conclusion: Otomycological profile of Ghaziabad district in Western Uttar Pradesh showed occurrence of Aspergillus and Candida as the most common mycological flora leading to the disease. Also, the most common precipitating factors were compulsive ear cleaning and practices like oil instillation in ears which is very common in this part of the country leading to higher incidence of otomycosis thus requiring proper awareness regarding ear care among general population.