PERICHONDRITIS OF PINNA: ANALYSIS OF 49 CASES AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTER IN EASTERN NEPAL

Abstract

Objectives:

To analyse the aetiological factors responsible for perichondritis of pinna and to see the role of antibiotic and surgical treatment  in the outcome of disease

Materials and Methods:

A prospective study involving 49 patients who were admitted with perichondritis of pinna during June 2012 to June 2014. Analysis of their demographic details, medical history, current illness, etiology, pathogens and treatments was carried out.

Results:

The patients mean age was 21 years. In 9 patients (18.36%), the etiology could not be determined. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was found to be the predominant organism (62.06 %) and was associated with a more advanced clinical presentation and longer hospitalization. 29 patients (59.18 %) required surgical intervention.

Conclusion:

Perichondritis  of pinna can develop after apparent minor trauma. Since Pseudomonas aeruginosa is probably  the predominant pathogen, initial treatment should include anti-pseudomonal antibiotics.

Keywords: Perichondritis, pseudomonas aeruginosa