Biofilm in Human Temporal Bones with Otogenic Meningitis

Abstract

Objective: To detect biofilm structures in the temporal bones (TB) with otogenic meningitis.

Method: Twenty-two TB from 12 patients with otogenic meningitis and 27 TB from 17 patients with otitis media without meningitis were histopathologically examined. The presence, the amount, and localization of biofilm, fluid, and pathologic diagnosis have been noted. Data were compared between the groups with and without otogenic meningitis.

Results: Biofilm formation has been observed in 19 of 22 TB with otogenic meningitis group and 7 of 27 TB with otitis media/without otogenic meningitis group (P .05). The most common localization of biofilm was in the round window, and it was least common in the Eustachian tube. Biofilm was also present in other areas, including the oval window, facial recess, sinus tympani, mastoid, and inner ear.

Conclusion: Biofilm is a very frequent finding in patients with otogenic meningitis. It seems that the eradication of the biofilm from the hidden areas of the middle ear cleft could be important to prevent any complications such as meningitis.