The Isolation of Proteus Species from Patients with Otitis Media in Baquba City

Abstract

Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear, usually associated with upper respiratory tract infection. Although, it can occur at any age, but 60-80% of children had recurrent otitis media. Early diagnosis and management may avoid serious complications like, brain abscess, meningitis, lateral sinus thrombosis and subdural abscess. Objectives: To determine the isolation rate of proteus species from patients with otitis media in Baquba city, and to explore the effects of certain relevant factors. Materials and methods: Ear swabs were collected from 270 patients with acute or chronic otitis media attending the out-patient clinic of Baquba General Hospital. Information regarding age, sex, residence, and smoking were collected by special form pre-constructed for this purpose. Isolation and identification of Proteus species based on standard bacteriological criteria. All data were statistically analyzed.