Suction clearance and 2% topical miconazole versus the same combination with acidic drops in the treatment of otomycosis

From April 2003 to September 2004, 59 ears from 55 patients received suction clearance and topical miconazole 2% (regimen 1) and in September 2004 to December 2005, 64 ears from 58 patients received the same combinations plus acidic drops [acetic acid 3% (v/ v) in 97% ethanol]. The mean age of patients treated with regimen 1 was 35.76+/-16 years and in regimen 2 was 37.98+/-15 years. Aspergilus sp and Candida sp were seen in 35 (59.3%) and 24 (40.7%) cases treated with regimen 1 and in 43 (67.2%) and 21 (32.8%) cases treated in regimen 2, respectively. Relapse occurred in 2 (3.4%) ears treated with regimen 1, but none in cases treated with regimen 2 (p=0.228). The findings reveal that there were no statistically significant differences between the two regimens and both may be used for the treatment of otomycosis.