Evaluating the sensitivity of moxifloxacin 0.5% in acute otitis externa (AOE): An in vitro comparative study

Abstract

Background: Acute otitis externa (AOE) is a common external auditory canal infection frequently caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. As bacterial resistance to antibiotics has increased, choosing effective therapies has become more difficult. Aim: This study evaluated the sensitivity of 0.5% Moxifloxacin compared to other antibiotics. Methodology: A prospective comparative study was conducted on 45 patients aged 2 to 55 with acute otitis externa (AOE). The sample included 23 males (51%) and 22 females (49%). Specimens were collected using sterile swabs and cultured on appropriate media. Bacterial identification was carried out through Gram staining and biochemical testing. Sensitivity and resistance to antibiotics, including Ciprofloxacin (1% w/v), Levofloxacin (0.5% w/v), Ofloxacin (0.2% w/v), and Moxifloxacin (0.5% w/v), were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0. Results: The average patient age was 29.04 ± 12.42 years, and 76% of cases had bacterial growth. Moxifloxacin had the highest sensitivity rate (68%), followed by Levofloxacin (65%), Ciprofloxacin (59%), and Ofloxacin (56%). Moxifloxacin showed the least resistance (32%), whereas Ofloxacin showed the most resistance (44%). Conclusion: 0.5% Moxifloxacin had the lowest resistance and the maximum sensitivity to bacteria isolated, and could present a viable option for managing antibiotic-resistant strains in AOE.