An exploration of recorded otological manifestations in South African children with HIV/AIDS: A pilot study

Context: The human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is a pandemic currently presenting as one of South Africa's largest health challenges. Within the pediatric population, hearing plays a vital role in appropriate speech, language and scholastic development; therefore, unidentified and untreated otologic manifestations require exploration in this population. Aim: The current study aimed to identify recorded otological manifestations in pediatric patients with HIV/AIDS attending an HIV/AIDS clinic in Johannesburg. Method: A qualitative retrospective record review design was adopted where data were collected from 100 medical records from a pediatric HIV/AIDS clinic in a public hospital in Johannesburg. Data were analyzed using qualitative statistical measures. Results: Findings revealed that almost half (43%) of the sample presented with otological manifestations. Otitis media 15 (15%) and otorrhea 15 (15%) were the most common manifestations. A few (only 7%) of the participants with otological manifestations were referred to Audiologists and/or Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists (ENTs) for assessment and management. Conclusions: Current findings raise important implications for the clinical assessment and management of pediatric patients with HIV/AIDS, for the role of all team members, and for the importance of early detection and intervention of these manifestations in this population group where speech-language development is still occurring and where successful learning at school is still key.