Pattern and causes of tympanic membrane perforation at a private hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

Introduction: There is variation in the size, shape and position of tympanic membrane perforations; the degree of conductive hearing loss depends on the size and position of perforation.

Objective: To determine the pattern and causes of tympanic membrane perforation at a private health facility in Tanzania

Method: A hospital-based cross-sectional study in the ENT clinic at Ekenywa Specialised Hospital was conducted from January to May 2019. Ears were examined thoroughly by an Otorhinolaryngologist. Data were analysed using SPSS Version 21

Results: Two hundred and fifty patients were examined and 50 (20%) were found to have tympanic membrane perforations. Thirty (60%) were new patients while twenty (40%) were under review. Most 35(70%) were males. Central perforation predominated in 30 (60%), followed by subtotal in 10 (20%), total in 8 (16%) and marginal perforations in 2 (4%). The left ear was more affected in (60%) than the right ear. Bilateral perforations accounted for 5 (10%) of cases. Chronic suppurative otitis media was found in 35 (70%); other causes were acute suppurative otitis media in 13 (26%) and trauma in 2 (4%) patients

Conclusions: The clinical picture depicted in this study is similar to that found elsewhere. There is a need for prompt diagnosis of tympanic membrane perforation. Proper education on ear care in patients with perforated tympanic membrane is of paramount importance.

Keywords: Pattern, Causes, tympanic membrane, perforation, Tanzania