Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Background: Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) is a persistent middle ear infection with prolonged ear discharge, mainly affecting populations in low- and middle-income countries. It significantly contributes to hearing loss, especially in children, impacting language development, education, and quality of life. CSOM arises from multiple factors, including infection, Eustachian tube dysfunction, poor socioeconomic conditions, and inadequate healthcare access. Clinical features such as discharge type and perforation site help identify causative organisms.
Aim of the study: This study aims to investigate the causative organisms and clinical correlates of CSOM in patients presenting to a tertiary care centre. 
Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Department of Otolaryngology and Head Neck Surgery, Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chittagong, Bangladesh from January to June 2023. Fifty patients clinically diagnosed with CSOM were included, regardless of age or gender, following informed consent. Exclusion criteria involved acute otitis media, immunocompromised status, and ear trauma. Data were collected through structured interviews, medical record reviews, and clinical examinations. Variables included sociodemographic data, clinical features, medical history, and otoscopic findings. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0.
Results: The study analyzed 50 CSOM patients, with a male predominance (56%) and a mean age of 28.6±12.4 years. Most patients were from rural areas (62%) and had primary or secondary education. Laborers (34%) and students (26%) were commonly affected. The right ear was more frequently involved (42%), with bilateral cases in 24%. Mucopurulent discharge (52%) and hearing loss (92%) were the most common clinical features. Central tympanic membrane perforation (74%) was the most observed otoscopic finding. Granulation tissue was found in 26%, and 60% had a history of upper respiratory infections. Contralateral ear involvement occurred in 24% of cases.
Conclusion: CSOM remains a prevalent and disabling condition in Bangladesh, especially among rural, less-educated, and socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. Typical findings include hearing loss, prolonged ear discharge, and middle ear pathology. Strengthening awareness, early intervention, and improving healthcare infrastructure are essential to mitigate its long-term consequences.