Abstract

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a gram negative bacterium that primarily affects immunocompromised and clinically debilitated patients. It is known to affect many tissues and organ systems of the body, but it rarely causes otitis externa. We reported a case of otitis externa due to S. maltophilia in a 22-year-old immunocompromised male who had bilateral otalgia and ear discharge, as well as left facial nerve palsy in combination with hearing loss. Further investigations revealed S. maltophilia in ear drainage cultures, including a deep swab taken during surgical debridement. Systemic antibiotics in combination with local treatment were effective in controlling the infection and resulted in the resolution of his signs and symptoms, except for the hearing loss. We believe that early identification of the pathogen and treatment of the infection might lead to a favorable outcome.

Key words: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, opportunistic infection, otitis externa.