Comparative Study of Middle Meatal Flora in the Era of Antibiotic Resistance

Abstract

Background: Microbiota of the nasal cavity plays a crucial role in determining the reaction patterns of the mucosal and systemic immune system. It is important to study bacterial and fungal flora from the middle meatus of a healthy population. It will determine micro-organisms colonizing the paranasal sinuses and check their antibiotic resistance. This study aims at identifying and comparing the microbial and fungal flora present in the middle meatus of patients of the nasal surgery group (NSG) and non-nasal surgery group (NNSG). Material and Methods: This is a crosssectional observational study. The endoscopic middle meatal swab was taken from NSG and NNSG (Control) groups for aerobic and fungal cultures. Results: Aerobic growths were seen in 43.28% of NSG and 50% of NNSG. The difference was statistically insignificant (p< 0.44). In the majority of patients in both groups, Staphylococcus Epidermidis were isolated, 34.49% in NSG and 34.37% in NNSG. In both groups, the majority of organisms show 100% sensitivity to linezolid, daptomycin, teicoplanin, and vancomycin. Good sensitivity was also shown to tetracycline, trimethoprim, and sulfamethaxaoxazole. There was complete resistance to Benzylpenicillin (100%). Comparison of sensitivity showed data was statistically insignificant. No fungal growth was detected in both groups. Conclusion:The present study concludes that there is no difference in the aerobic growths and sensitivity of both groups. No fungal growth was detected in both groups. The culture sensitivity pattern is an indicator of antibiotic selection in this era of antibiotic resistance. Also, the study concludes, oral drugs like Erythromycin, Tetracyclines, and Trimethomprim-Sulfamethaxazole can be considered for medical management.