Evaluation and management of ear itching: our experience

Abstract

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> Itching of ear is a common presenting symptom in clinical practice. Ear itching has many underlying causes which needs detailed evaluation. The aim of the study was to determine the incidence of ear itch and the aetiological factors and various management options associated with ear itch.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> A retrospective observational cohort study was done in two centres over a period of one year in patients with ear itch in ENT outpatient were included. Sampling method used was systematic sampling. The details regarding the age, gender and co-morbidities of the patients were recorded. The ear was clinically examined. </p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> A total of 2143 patients presented to outpatient, 210 (9.8%) presented with ear itching. The mean age (SD) of the study patients were 46.8 years (15.6). The gender distribution showed a male:female of 1:1. Comorbidities included hypertension (27.14%), diabetes (8.57%) and combination of both in 8.1%. Mean±SD of duration of study subjects was 4.3±1.6 months. The common aetiologies were otomycosis (30%), wax deposition (25.24%) and otitis externa (14.29%). Diabetes was predominantly associated with otomycosis (68.57%, p<0.0001). In our study, prevalence of ear itching was 9.8% with common aetiologies were otomycosis, wax deposition and otitis externa. There was significant association of diabetes mellitus with otomycosis.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> Ear itching is a symptom that needs detailed history, careful clinical evaluation and management. Patient’s quality of life will largely improve if ear itching is dealt with all possible aetiologies and appropriate management.</p>