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

Summary

This study examined fungal ear infections in a hospital in Senegal and found that about 85% of suspected cases were actually caused by fungi. The most common fungi were Aspergillus and Candida species. The research shows that itching was the main symptom associated with fungal ear infections, and that proper diagnosis is important to avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and provide better treatment.

Background

Otomycosis is a fungal ear infection affecting the external auditory canal, representing 5-10% of otitis externa cases. The disease is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, yet there are limited studies on otomycosis in Senegal outside the Dakar region.

Objective

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

Results

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

Conclusion

The study demonstrates a high prevalence of otomycosis in the Ziguinchor region, with Aspergillus and Candida species as primary etiological agents. These findings underscore the importance of mycological diagnosis in otitis externa cases to optimize antifungal treatment and reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi (Basel),
  • Study Type:Retrospective Descriptive Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40137256, DOI: 10.3390/jof11030218
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