A survey of general medical practitioners` knowledge of management of cerumen auris in North-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Cerumen auris (Ear wax) is the among common ear disorders seen by the General Practitioners (GPs). Cerumen auris removal is an otorhinolaryngological procedure most commonly performed by the GPs and it is their commonest source of iatrogenic otologic problems. This survey was conducted among GPs to seek their knowledge of managing cerumen auris and its outcome in North-Eastern Nigeria. Methods: This is a descriptive cross sectional study on the management of cerumen auris among GPs practicing in North- Eastern Nigeria. Closed ended structured questionnaires were administered to GPs during continuous medical education sessions carried out in four states (Adamawa, Borno, Gombe and Yobe)s of the North Eastern Nigeria from June to December, 2011. Data collected were analysed using SPSS computer software version 16.0. Results: a total of 130 questionnaires were administered to the GPS, 91% were completed and retrieve. Eight-five per cent of the respondents were males and 15% were females. About 14% of the GPs had no otoscope nor were it provided by their hospital. Sixty-nine of the GPs see less than 11 patients with cerumen auris per month, 1.7% see between 31 and 40 patients per month and none see greater than 40 patients per month. About 13% of the GPs diagnosed cerumen auris with history alone. About 55% of the GPs use wax softeners and ear syringing together as form treating cerumen auris. Ear pain is the commonest complication encountered by the patients after ear syringe. Conclusions: Application of wax softeners followed by ear syringing is the mode of treatment adopted by most practitioners, although they don`t follow the standard method. There is a need for continuous medical education on the management of cerumen auris among GPS.