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

ABSTRACT

This study presents the isolation and identification of bacterial species associated with male earwax in the University of Benin hostels. A total of 60 individuals were recruited for this investigation, and their tympanic cavities were analyzed for bacterial composition. The results revealed a diverse microbial community, with 94 micro-organisms of 6 species noticed in the 60 subjects. 18 (19.1%) of these bacteria were identified to be Bacillus substilis, and 23 (24.5%) were identified as Corynebacterium. Escherichia Coli had a frequency of 5 (5.3%), and Pseudomonas aeroginal had a frequency of 4 (4.3%). Staphylococcus aureus and epidermis had a frequency of 29(30.9%) and 15 (16%) respectively.Further investigation into antibiotic susceptibility and resistance patterns demonstrated significant variations across different bacterial species. Baccilus substillis was most susceptible to Perfoxacin. Streptomycin, Sulfamethoxazole, Ciprofloxacin, Zinnacaf, Gentamycin, and Perfoxacin exhibited high efficacy against Escherichia coli, while Amoxicillin displayed reduced effectiveness. Pseudomonas aeroginal exhibited heightened susceptibility to Ciprofloxacin, whereas Staphylococcus aureus and epidermis displayed susceptibility to Ciprofloxacin and Perfoxacin. This research contribute to our understanding of the microbial composition within the male ear canal, with potential implications for clinical treatment strategies and antibiotic stewardship. This research serves as a valuable contribution to the ongoing efforts to address bacterial infections in this specific demographic.