In tubotympanic type CSOM (safe ear), the bacteria most commonly isolated in pure cultures from the chronic discharge is:
- A Staphylococcus aureus
- B Proteus mirabilis
- C Pseudomonas aeruginosa ✓
- D Klebsiella pneumoniae
Explanation
In chronic suppurative otitis media of the tubotympanic (mucosal/safe) type, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most commonly isolated organism, followed by Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus species. Pseudomonas produces biofilm and is inherently resistant to many antibiotics, making topical quinolone drops (ciprofloxacin) the preferred local treatment. Staphylococcus aureus is more common in acute exacerbations. Klebsiella is occasionally seen but is not predominant.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.