CLINICAL PROFILE OF CHRONIC SUPPURATIVE OTITIS MEDIA (CSOM) PATIENTS.

Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is one of the common problems encountered by individuals in India. It can cause permanent hearing loss at a very early age if not treated at earliest. CSOM is a common disease encountered in ENT practice, and proper evaluation and treatment can prevent the morbidity due to its complications. This study was conducted to know the clinical profile of patients with CSOM. It was a cross sectional study of 50 patients with CSOM of all age groups and both sexes, attending the Out Patient Department and those admitted in Otorhinolaryngology wards. 30 % of patients were in age group og 31-40 years. Infection was most common cause of CSOM. 80 % patients had Ear discharge. 44 % had hearing loss. 64 % had pain in ear. 48 % patients had Mucopurulent ear discharge and 22 patients % had Purulent ear discharge. Recurrent ear infection will cause hearing impairment over the years as a result of mucosal changes in the windows and ossicles. CSOM is a common condition in developing countries and requires support and cooperation of both medical professionals and patients for the proper and timely management of the problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]