Prevalence of ENT Diseases in the Mental Deficient Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with mental deficiency have increased health needs. They develop certain ailments more than the rest of the general population. ENT pathology includes all the ailments concerning the nose, throat and ear and is a frequent reason for consultation in our health facilities. The aim of this study was to report the prevalence of ENT diseases in mental deficient. Material and Methods: This was a prospective, longitudinal study on a population of patients received in ENT consultation, during the days of October 15, 2019 and February 18, 2020 on the occasion of health campaigns organized by the Senegal Special Olympics Association. All admitted patients were mental deficient. Results: Out of a total of 334 patients received in general consultation (all specialties combined), 61 patients underwent an ENT consultation, i.e. a prevalence of 18.26%. There were more men (N = 39) than women (N = 32). The average age of the patients was 20 years. A past history of chronic otitis media was reported in 9.83% of patients (N = 6). Functional signs were dominated by hypoacusis (N = 16). Seventy point forty-nine patients (N = 43) had otologic conditions. Thirty-four patients had trisomy 21 (64.15%). Conclusion: The prevalence of ENT diseases among the mental deficient is considerable. This study is the first of its type in Senegal which superimposes the ENT on mental deficiency.