PNEUMOCYSTIS-CARINII OTITIS

Pneumocystis carinii (PC) otitis is a rare opportunistic infection of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). initially hearing loss and otalgia occur with thickening of the tympanic membrane and the bor dering skin of the ear canal. Otorhea, ear polyps, perforation of tymp anic membrane, destruction of mastoidal bone, and participation of cra nial nerves are observed. Diagnosis is established histologically. The treatment of the parasite is by trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole combina tions. The immunological situation seems to be better than in PC pneum onia. Due to the underlying immunological incompetence the infection c an not be expected to limit itself. To prevent severe complications as sequestrating mastoiditis, early diagnosis and specific surgical and medical treatment are neccessary.