A Prospective Study of Clinical Profile of Primary Otomycosis

Abstract

Introduction: Otomycosis, a common otological problem, is difficult to manage and necessitates patient compliance because of its high recurrence rate.

Materials and Methods: A prospective comparative study on the clinical profile of primary otomycosis was conducted from January 2023 to October 2023. A total of 152 immunocompetent individuals were studied. Seventy-six patients with clinically diagnosed otomycosis were included in the study group, while 76 patients without clinical otomycosis or any other aural symptoms seeking treatment for non-otological problems were included in the control group. The objective was to determine the clinical profile of primary otomycosis and identify its predisposing factors.

Results: Otomycosis was predominantly a unilateral disease and was more common among individuals of lower socioeconomic status. Ear itching was the most common presenting symptom. Individuals who habitually cleaned their ears or used home remedies for ear relief were at an increased risk of developing otomycosis.

Conclusion: Patient education, maintenance of aural hygiene, and topical antifungal treatment aid in controlling the progression of this disease.