Case Report

Aspergillus niger otomycosis in a child with chronic otitis externa

Christoffel J. Opperman, Julie Copelyn
Southern African Journal of Infectious Diseases | Vol 35, No 1 | a128 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/sajid.v35i1.128 | © 2020 Christoffel J. Opperman, Julie Copelyn | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 29 May 2019 | Published: 25 June 2020

About the author(s)

Christoffel J. Opperman, Division of Medical Microbiology, National Health Laboratory Service, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
Julie Copelyn, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa

Abstract

Aspergillus niger is commonly associated with otomycosis. Currently, local guidelines lack appropriate guidance on the definitive treatment and management when the fungus is identified. The repeated use of antibiotics in children with refractory episodes of otitis externa is concerning and may contribute towards otomycosis. This case report highlights the importance of a well-collected pus swab from the ear and suggests a topical antifungal to use in paediatric patients with Aspergillus niger otomycosis.

Keywords

Aspergillus niger; otomycosis; chronic otitis externa; otorrhea; antifungal.

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