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Epidemiological Profile of Otomycosis at the Peace Hospital of Ziguinchor (Senegal)

Summary

This study examined fungal ear infections (otomycosis) in a hospital in Senegal, finding that 85% of suspected cases were confirmed as fungal infections. The most common culprits were Aspergillus mold and Candida yeast species. The research emphasizes that proper fungal identification is crucial for effective treatment, as doctors might otherwise prescribe unnecessary antibiotics that don’t work against fungi.

Background

Otomycosis is an ear infection caused by microscopic fungi that develop in the external auditory canal, representing 5-10% of otitis externa cases. The condition is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical zones but remains understudied in Senegal, particularly outside the Dakar region.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of otomycosis in Ziguinchor, Senegal, identify the etiological agents responsible, and establish factors associated with disease occurrence.

Results

Mycological examination was positive in 70 patients (85.37% prevalence). The dominant fungal isolates were Aspergillus section Nigri (30%), Aspergillus section Flavi (20%), and Candida albicans/Candida dubliniensis (10%), with molds comprising 67.07% of isolates. Auricular pruritus showed significant correlation with otomycosis onset (p=1.7033×10⁻⁶).

Conclusion

The study demonstrates a high prevalence of otomycosis in the Ziguinchor region, with Aspergillus species as the predominant etiological agents. Mycological diagnosis is essential to avoid excessive antibiotic use and ensure appropriate antifungal treatment in cases of otitis media.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Retrospective Descriptive Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40137256, DOI: 10.3390/jof11030218
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