INTRODUCTION:
Fungi constitute a large diverse group of about 120,000 heterotrophic organism that differ characteristically from plants , bacteria and other protists in that it contains chitin in their cell walls. Most of the fungi are found as saprophytes in the soil and in decaying plant material, of which nearly 50,000 species have clinical importance. The virulence of the fungi is attributed to the fact that the fungus can grow in human body temperature (37oc) and the ability to produce various toxins and enzymes within the host and thus makes it pathological. Otomycosis can be a chronic
or sub-acute, non-contagious, recurrent superficial mycotic infection of the external ear (pinna and external Auditory canal or both). It can also infect the middle ear in cases of post mastoidectomy or fenesteration patient. However deep fungal infections and systemic mycosis involving the ear are extremely uncommon.
AIM OF THE STUDY:
1. To study the prevalence of Otomycosis in patients suspected of otomycosis attending in Sree Mookambika Institute of Medical Sciences.
2. To identify the pre disposing factors involved in the cases of otomycosis.
3. To evaluate the various presenting symptoms in patients with otomycosis.
4. To identify common isolates which is prevalent in our institution and various etiology for the same.
OBJECTIVES:
1. To study the prevalence of Otomycosis and its aetiology in patients attending in our institution (Sree Mookambika Institute of Medical Sciences.)
2. To analyse the common causative organisms.
METHODOLOGY:
The study was a hospital based cross sectional study conducted in the department of ENT, Sree Mookambika Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital, Kanyakumari from December 2017 to October 2019 (Approximately 18 months). A total of 50 patients with the suspected otoscopic evidence of fungal debris were selected through clinical history, the predisposing factors and examination under 10% KOH study microscope was done, for the etiology of common isolates the same was and sent for fungal cultures.
RISKS AND BENEFITS OF THE STUDY:
• Benefits: Appropriate early diagnosis of causative factors for SNHL in diabetics to ensure prompt and effective management and to avoid or minimize the occurrence of complications.
• No risks so far have been detected following the study.
CONCLUSION:
The incidence of Otomycosis is more during monsoon period. Females are more affected. Unilateral incidence of disease is common. CSOM is the most common predisposing factor. Candida albicans is the most common fungal isolate. aspergillus flavus is the most common isolate in agriculturists and labourers (outdoor workers). Aspergillus niger is the common fungal isolate in females. Systemic illness play an important role in the recurrence of otomycosis. Inadequate aural toilet plays a role in recurrence
