Tuberculous Otitis Media: A Mysterious Ailment

Main Article Content

Dr. V. Saravana Selvan
Dr. Vivek Mariappan
Dr. S. Mohamed Siddique
Dr. N. Suresh Kumar
Dr. Rhea Rachel Mathai
Dr. M. Tany James

Abstract

Abstract:


Introduction: Tuberculous otitis media (TOM) is an infrequent ailment. As an uncommon form of extra-pulmonary Tuberculosis, it is often underestimated, leading to a delay in diagnosis and start of appropriate treatment.


Case Series: We describe 3 cases of TOM diagnosed and treated in our institute. The typical presentation was prolonged ear discharge not responding to culture sensitive antibiotics, hard of hearing, perforation of tympanic membrane, pale whitish granulation tissue. Pure Tone Audiogram (PTA) done to evaluate the hearing loss. The granulation tissue from all the patients sent for Histopathology examination (HPE) and Cartridge Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CBNAAT) examination. CBNAAT results were positive in all three patients. HPE reported as chronic inflammatory pathology. PTA revealed sensorineural hearing loss in 2 patients and conductive hearing loss in 1 patient. Treatment with regular ATT 4FDC (Anti Tubercular Treatment- Four Drug Combination) regimen was started as per weight band for 6 months. Each of them was on follow up and symptomatically improving.


Discussion: TOM requires recognition in refractory chronic otitis media. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent complications and optimise outcomes. The delay in initiating therapy may lead to complications such as facial nerve palsy. This case series aims to highlight the clinical presentation, effective diagnostic modalities and treatment of tuberculous otitis media and stresses the importance of awareness among otorhinolaryngologists regarding TOM and its timely management.

Article Details

How to Cite
Tuberculous Otitis Media: A Mysterious Ailment. (2024). Bengal Journal of Otolaryngology and Head Neck Surgery, 31(3), 165-170. https://doi.org/10.47210/bjohns.2023.v31i3.22
Section
Case series
Author Biographies

Dr. V. Saravana Selvan , Associate Professor, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Associate Professor, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Dr. Vivek Mariappan, Assistant Professor, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Assistant Professor, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Dr. S. Mohamed Siddique , Assistant Professor, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Assistant Professor, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Dr. N. Suresh Kumar , Director and Professor, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Director and Professor, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Dr. Rhea Rachel Mathai, Junior Resident, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Junior Resident, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Dr. M. Tany James, Junior Resident, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

Junior Resident, Upgraded Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Madras Medical College

How to Cite

Tuberculous Otitis Media: A Mysterious Ailment. (2024). Bengal Journal of Otolaryngology and Head Neck Surgery, 31(3), 165-170. https://doi.org/10.47210/bjohns.2023.v31i3.22

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