Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa. Design: Cross-sectional retrospective review of otoscopy results obtained during a school health screening campaign conducted between March and June 2015. Descriptive statistics through percentages and frequency tables were used to analyse the data. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between age, gender and pathologies observed. Study sample: Medical folders of 1089 pupils. Results: Forty-nine percent had normal otoscopy results. A significant 36% (n = 392) had impacted cerumen. Furthermore, 45% of those with impacted cerumen were bilaterally impacted. Additionally, 4% presented with foreign bodies and a further 8% had otitis externa and otitis media. The remaining 3% had tympanic membrane perforations. The odds of developing outer and middle ear pathologies were higher in pupils below 6 years of age (p = 0.046). Conclusion: This study highlights a high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo and therefore recommends comprehensive baseline and periodic screenings; to identify children with outer and middle ear pathologies and need further management, and consequently prevent the complications of these pathologies. Additionally, this report highlights a rising need for large-scale research to provide comprehensive analysis of these pathologies.

Key Words:

• Outer and middle ear pathology
• otoscopic examination
• paediatrics
• impacted wax

Declaration of interest

The author declares no competing interests.