Introduction:

Among the bacteria causing CSOM, Fungal infection of middle ear and meatus are common as fungi thrive well in moist pus. Development of otalgia, itching and presence of hyphae indicate Fungal involvement.

Aims and objectives: To identify Fungal isolates in CSOM.

Material and Methods: one hundred and fifty patients with tubotympanic type of CSOM were prospectively studied. They have chronic ear discharge and had not received antibiotics for the previous five days. Isolation of fungus was done by their gram staining, direct microscopy with KOH, culture tests on SDA were carried out to identify the organisms. Two sterile cotton swabs were used to collect ear discharge from CSOM patients.

Result:  Fungal elements were observed in 3 (1.9%) of the specimens subjected to KOH mount. Culture revealed isolation of Candida albicans in two and Aspergillus flavus in one of the cases.

Conclusion: Bacterial flora of the ear may get suppress by the prolonged use of antibiotics or steroidal drops which subsequently might lead to Fungal growth.