ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF THE BACTERIA POPULATION OF THE TYMPANIC CAVITY OF FEMALE STUDENT IN THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN HOSTEL

ABSTRACT

This aim of this study is to isolate and identify bacterial species associated with female earwax in the University of Benin hostels. A total of 60 people were selected for this study, and the bacteria in their tympanic canals were examined. The participants were aged 17–25 years. The results revealed a diverse microbial community, with 91 micro-organisms of 6 species noticed in the 60 subjects. 18 (19.78%) of these bacteria were identified to be Bacillus substilis, and 17 (18.68%) were identified as Corynebacterium. Escherichia Coli had a frequency of 4 (4.40%), and Pseudomonas aeroginal had a frequency of 6 (6.59%). Staphylococcus aureus and epidermis had a frequency of 27(29.67%) and 19 (20.88%) respectively. More research into antibiotic sensitivity and resistance patterns revealed considerable differences between bacterial species. Bacillus substillis was most susceptible to Perfoxacin.  Streptomycin, Sulfamethoxazole, Zinnacaf, Gentamycin, and Perfoxacin exhibited lower efficacy against Escherichia coli, while Ciprofloxacin displayed high effectiveness. Pseudomonas aeroginal exhibited heightened susceptibility to Ciprofloxacin, whereas Staphylococcus aureus and epidermis displayed susceptibility to Ciprofloxacin and Perfoxacin. This study adds to our understanding of the microbial composition of the female ear canal, which may have consequences for clinical treatment techniques and antibiotic stewardship. This study adds to the ongoing efforts to combat bacterial infections in this population.