Comparative Study between Ear Set Use in Relation with Bacterial Biofilms Causing Ear-Infections

Abstract

Ear infections were recently considered as a serious public health issue in many countries; where Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria are the most associated organisms. Besides, the ability of many species of those microorganisms to grow biofilms on medical equipments and different head set raised the question about the relationship between widespread use of ear set and complicated ear infections. Therefore, this study was suggested in order to evaluate the relationship between the continuous use of ear set with biofilm formation and ear infections among handlers. Patients, Materials and Methods: This study was carried out in Kirkuk City during January to May 2023 on a total number of (168) participants from both sexes and age range between 20-60 years. Participants were divided into two groups according to ear set use; Group A included (n=120) headphone users with (50 male and 70 female), who attended Kirkuk Teaching Hospital. On the other hand, Group B included non-headphone users of (n=48) participants with (18 male and 30 female) as the control group. Ear swab samples were collected aseptically under the supervision of Otolaryngologist Consultant from both groups and were immediately cultivated on selective media for microbiological and biochemical diagnostic tests. In accordance, the biofilm formation ability by the isolated bacteria was distinguished using the Congo red agar method. In addition, this study involved certain serological test including: the estimation of Human GR, SOD, and MDA antioxidants levels through using of the ELISA technique for all the participants, and the biochemical tests included measuring Vitamin D3 levels by using the ichromaTM technique to through the light on other factors which might be associated with ear infections. Diagnostic tests revealed the isolation of (28.33%) Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and (45%) of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm positive isolates from ear swabs of Group A participants. While, ear swabs collected from Group B had displayed the isolation of (4.16%) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and (8.33 %) of Staphylococcus aureus isolates respectively. Besides, the age range of (20-30) years old showed the highest rates among the infected patients, with male patients being more vulnerable to the infections than their female spouse. Moreover, Vitamin D3, human GR, SOD, and MDA antioxidant markers showed a significant decrease among participants of Group A in comparison to Group B Vitamin D3 and antioxidant marker levels.Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the most prevalent agents involved in ear infections. Male patients were more susceptible to contracting ear infections. Vitamin D3, Human GR, SOD, and MDA antioxidant Marker levels declined in patients with ear infections especially the users of headphones.