Association between Deviated Nasal Septum and Otitis Media with Effusion in Adult

Abstract

Introduction: Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS) is a common anatomical variation that can disrupt normal nasal airflow and lead to complications, including Eustachian tube dysfunction. Otitis Media with Effusion (OME), characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear without signs of acute infection, often arises from impaired Eustachian tube function. This study aimed to evaluate the association between deviated nasal septum and otitis media with effusion in adults. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional observational study conducted at Rajshahi Medical College, Rajshahi , over 1 year; July 2020 to June 2021. The primary objective was to evaluate the association between Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS) and Otitis Media with Effusion (OME) in adult patients. A total of 80 participants were included in the study. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 20.0. Result: This study analyzed 80 participants, with 55% males and the majority (40%) in the 18–30 age group. DNS was most frequently mild (43.75%), followed by moderate (40%) and severe (16.25%). OME was present in 30% of participants. No statistically significant associations were observed between DNS severity and OME presence (p=0.733), or between OME and demographic factors such as age (p=0.637) and gender. Mild DNS was more common among younger participants, and severe DNS showed a slightly higher prevalence in females. Conclusion: This study highlights the intricate relationship between DNS severity, age, gender, and the presence of OME. While DNS, particularly in its moderate to severe forms, has been associated with Eustachian tube dysfunction and subsequent OME, no statistically significant association was observed between DNS severity and OME in this cohort. Similarly, age and gender, though influential in the distribution of DNS and OME, did not demonstrate a significant correlation with OME presence.