Analysis of Sinonasal, Pharyngeal and Allergy-Related Risk Factors for Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate potential sinonasal, pharyngeal and allergy-related risk factors that may be associated with the risk of chronic otitis media development. Methods: After a detailed anamnesis, serum eosinophilic cationic protein levels, total and allergen-specific IgE levels and nasal smear samples were assessed for allergy-related findings. Paranasal sinus computed tomography was performed for rhinologic abnormalities. Results: The present study showed more frequently in patients suffering from chronic otitis media, several abnormalities in different allergic parameters such as eosinophil levels in the smear, serum eosinophilic cationic protein, total and specific serum IgE levels, which might cause nasal stuffiness, as hypertrophy of adenoid tissue, and presence of imaging findings consistent with obstruction of osteomeatal unit. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the role of sinonasal abnormalities and allergic rhinitis in the pathogenesis of chronic otitis media is still prevalent. We have concluded that although medical history, and physical examination are considered mandatory procedures during the initial evaluation of the patients with chronic otitis media, radiological, endoscopic, and other auxiliary diagnostic tools should be used in the objective assessment of the patients, and lesions of the nasal cavity, and the nasopharynx must be always taken into consideration in the differential diagnosis.