Introduction: Due to the prevalence of otomycosis in the north of Iran, which has a humid climate, this study aimed to examine the recurrence rate of otomycosis in Iranian patients.
Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in all patients suspected of otomycosis referred to the Otorhinolaryngology Clinic of Ayatollah Rouhani Hospital of Babol. Demographic and clinical data of patients as well as their symptoms were collected in a checklist at referral time and also 14 days after referral.
Results: The results showed that 11 (7.3%) cases had a recurrence of otomycosis. There was no significant relationship between the incidence of otomycosis and age or sex (P=0.86 and 0.88, respectively). Septate mycelium was the most observed element on direct examination. Aspergillus flavus was the most common pathogenic agent in culture media, followed by Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans.
Conclusion: Based on the results of this research in Babol, the recurrence of otomycosis was 7.3% and was related to swelling and erythema in ear canal.
Keywords: External ear; Fungal infection; Otomycosis; Recurrence rate.