Otologic Presentation and Management of Allergic Ear Disorder in a Tropical Developing Country

Adegbiji, Waheed Atilade and Olajide, Gabriel Toye and Olubi, Olawale Olusoga and Eletta, Paul Adebisi and Olusola, Emmanuel Abiodun and Agboola, Mathew Segun (2020) Otologic Presentation and Management of Allergic Ear Disorder in a Tropical Developing Country. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL of BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE, 16 (1). pp. 1-6.

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Abstract

Background: Allergic manifestation in ear is a common unrecognized otologic disorder worldwide. This study aimed at determining the clinicoepidemiologic pattern and management of patients with allergic ear disorder. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective hospital-based study of patients with clinical diagnosis of allergic ear disorder. Interviewer assisted questionnaire were administered to the consented patient. Data obtained were collated and analyzed using SPSS statistical software version 18.0. Results: Prevalence of allergic ear disorder in this study was 4.2%. There was 59.8% male with male to female ratio of 1.5:1. No allergen was identified in 7.3%. Common self-reported trigger factor were dirty/ earwax, water/Soap and eardrop/body cream in 72.0%, 53.7% and 39.0% respectively. There was family history of allergy in 58.5% of respondents. Common symptoms were pinna pulling/ear picking, ear blockage, hearing impairment and itchy ear in 81.7%, 56.7%, 54.3% and 49.4% respectively. A commonest finding on examination was clean external ear canal 81.7%. Middle ear cleft was the commonest affected part of the ear in 56.7%. A commonest associated comorbid illness was 64.6% allergic rhinitis. Commonest complication recorded was otitis media with effusion in 42.1% respondents. Main quality of life affected were sleep disturbance, depression, changes in mood and general health in 43.9%, 31.7%, 26.8% and 25.6% respectively. Commonest treatment was conservative treatment in 86.6%. Conclusion: Allergic ear disorder is a common ear, nose and throat disorder affecting all ages. At presentation most cases were associated with comorbid illnesses, complications and impact on quality of life. Early identification and referral of patient to a specialist and prompt treatment to reduce avoidable morbidity is advocated. (Int J Biomed Sci 2020; 16 (1): 5-10)

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