Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus in pediatric population with recurrent anterior epistaxis

Abstract

Introduction: Epistaxis is a frequent reason for consultation in pediatric otolaryn- gology. Several factors have been associated, both local and systemic. Some studies in adult population, have suggested the association of nasal colonization by Staphylococcus aureus with the recurrence of epistaxis. Finding this association in pediatric popula- tion could have a potential role in treatment and also as a possible target for prophylaxis. Aim: To compare the prevalence of nasal colonization by S. aureus between pediatric patients with recurrent epistaxis and controls with no previous recurrent epistaxis, in the Service of torhinolaryngology in Barros Luco Trudeau Hospital. Material and method: Case-control study, defining case as patients between 2 and 15 years who consulted for recurrent anterior epistaxis. Nasal cultures were taken from both groups. Results: 46 patients with epistaxis and 45 controls were included. The prevalence of S. aureus was 39% in the case group and 37% in the controls, without statistically significant differences. At the physical examination of the nasal mucosa, none of the characteristics studied showed a significant relationship with the presence of S. aureus. Conclusion: Nasal colonization of S. aureus in children with and without recurrent epistaxis does not vary considerably. In this study, the presence of S. aureus was not statistically associated with recurrent epistaxis.