Pattern of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations in Benin city

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Trauma is a recognised aetiological factor in tympanic membrane (TM) perforation. TM perforation remains a common presentation and is often with deleterious sequelae. AIM: The aim of this study is to determine the aetiological factors responsible for TM perforation as well as traumatic TM perforation (TTMP) among patients seen in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City. METHODS: A 2-year retrospective review of first time attendees with otologic symptoms at the ENT, H and NS Department of UBTH from January 2017 to December 2018. Data retrieved included age, sex, presenting complaints, aetiologic factors, examination findings, treatment and outcome. Data were analysed using the SPSS® software version 22. RESULTS: A total of 240 patients with TM perforations were seen. There were 107 (44.6%) males and 133 (55.4%) females giving a male:female ratio of 1:1.2. The age range was 2–85 years with a mean age of 32.63 (standard deviation ± 20.99) years. The aetiology for TM perforation was infective in 198 (82.5%) while traumatic in 42 (17.5%). Among the cases of traumatic perforations occurring in 42 patients (24 males and 18 females), assault from unknown assailant was the most common cause 13 (22.2%) occurring mostly in males. Domestic assault was the most common cause of TTMP in females, accounting for 10 (14.8%) of the 11 cases (18.5%) while self/parent inflicted was the most common cause in children. CONCLUSION: The spate of violence in the society is on the increase and the presence of TTMP may be an indicator. Males usually present due to assault from strangers/security agents. Domestic violence is almost exclusively responsible for TTMP in females.