Efficacy of Pyodine Soaked Gelfoam vs Single Topical Application of Clotrimazole in Treatment of Otomycosis: a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

INTRODUCTION:

Otomycosis, external auditory canal fungal infection is a recurrent and prevalent condition affecting 9%to 27.2% of patients worldwide. Use of topical antibiotics, humid conditions, and trauma to the external auditory canal are well-recognized risk factors for this disease. Aspergillus nigar (60-90%), and Candida species (10-40%) are the most commonly isolated pathogens in patients with otomycosis. Otomycosis presents with bothersome symptoms such as pruritis, watery ear discharge, otalgia, and ear blockage which significantly impairs the patient's quality of life Therapeutic approaches for fungal ear infections include aural toilet, withholding topical antibiotics, starting topical antifungals, and enhancing patient well-being and cleanliness Multiple treatment options are available for the treatment of otomycosis but the recurrence rate of the disease is high. While several antifungal agents have been employed for its treatment, due to a lack of efficacy comparison it is difficult to select an appropriate option The choice of therapy plays an important role in achieving rapid symptom resolution and complete fungal eradication. Clotrimazole, a conventional antifungal agent, has been widely employed, but its efficacy is not always optimal. For topical treatment compliance of the patient and proper application of medication is also an important factor affecting the efficacy of the drug. Conversely, the utilization of pyodine-soaked Gelfoam is a novel approach that offers several advantages, including sustained drug release better drug penetration, and decreased risk of resistance as in the case of antifungals.

Due to reduced compliance of the patients and ineffective technique of using topical antifungal otomycosis has a high rate of treatment failure and recurrence. Topical clotrimazole drops and povidine iodine solution have been compared for their efficacy in the past but a single topical application has not been compared until now. In this pursuit, we present a rigorous and comprehensive clinical trial designed to evaluate the comparative efficacy of two distinct treatment modalities: pyodine-soaked Gelfoam and a single topical application of 1% clotrimazole. The rationale behind this study is to address the escalating concerns regarding treatment-resistant otomycosis, as well as the need for cost-effective and practical solutions By addressing the question of which treatment is superior, this study endeavors to optimize the management of otomycosis, ensuring better patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

MATERIAL & METHODS:

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of povidone iodine-soaked gel foam vs clotrimazole ointment in the management of otomycosis. A randomized controlled study was done in the ENT Department of Benazir Bhutto Hospital Rawalpindi over a period of 6 months from June 2023 to December 2023.