Aetiological factors and dimension of tympanic membrane perforation in Benin City, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Tympanic membrane (TM) perforation is a recognised cause of hearing loss in our environment. The integrity of the TM can be compromised by varying aetiological factors which are often preventable. TM perforation occurs in different dimensions which tend to influence the degree of hearing loss. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the aetiological factors and dimensions of TM perforation among adolescents and adults in Benin City. Methods: This was a 1-year prospective study carried out from 1st July 2014 to 30th June 2015 at the Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic of University of Benin Teaching Hospital. Consecutive patients with TM perforation were examined using a hand-held otoscope as well as Firefly video otoscope and subsequently had an interviewer administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 and ImageJ software. Results: One hundred and forty-eight patients with TM perforation in either or both ears were studied. There were 67 (45.3%) males and 81 (54.7%) females; ratio of 1:1.2. Ages ranged from 10 to 64 years, with a mean age of 34.5 ± 15.7 years. Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) was the major cause of TM perforation in this study, 148 (74.0%). The small perforation was predominant, 54 (55.1%) and 48 (47%) in the right and left ears, respectively while the central anterior perforation, 93 (46.5%) occurred commonly. Conclusion: Central and small perforations were the predominant TM perforation while CSOM was the major cause of TM perforation.