A Study on Microbiological Profile of Ear Infections in Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital

Dr. Nandhini Mohan, Dr. S. Sarasa, Dr. A. Saravanakumar

Abstract: Ear infections occur in all age groups and are one of the most common clinical presentations in Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) clinics, especially in developing countries like India. Various studies have been done to determine the microbiological profile of ear infections with varying results. Aim: This study was conducted at Chengalpattu Medical College and Hospital to determine the aerobic microbiological profile of ear infections in this geographical area, with an emphasis on the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of the bacterial organisms isolated. Materials and Methods: 150 samples were taken from both sexes of all age groups who attended the ENT OPD with symptoms of ear infection, over a period of one year, from January 2018 to December 2018 in Chengalpattu Medical College and Hospital. Gram stain, KOH wet mount, bacterial culture and sensitivity, and fungal culture were carried out. Results: Bacteria accounted for 87% and fungi for 13% of the 140 culture-positive cases. Among the bacterial isolates, Gram-negative organisms predominate (64%). The most common bacterial isolate was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (42.6%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (31.14%). The most commonly isolated organisms showed the highest sensitivity to Ciprofloxacin and Amikacin. The most common fungal isolate was Aspergillus species (78%), followed by Candida species (22%). Conclusion: This study on the microbial profile of ear infection gives a comprehensive picture of the etiological agents and their antibiotic sensitivity pattern. This helps to ensure prompt and effective treatment, thereby reducing the risk of serious complications and also the emergence of resistant strains.

Keywords: Ear infection, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus species, Candida species

How to Cite?: Dr. Nandhini Mohan, Dr. S. Sarasa, Dr. A. Saravanakumar, "A Study on Microbiological Profile of Ear Infections in Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 838-846, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251110142626, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251110142626