Vol. 9, Issue - 3, Part A (2025)

Mashhood Nasir, Alisha Adil and Usamah Ahmad

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33545/2616454X.2025.v9.i3a.379

Abstract:
Otomycosis is a superficial fungal infection of the external auditory canal commonly caused by Aspergillus and Candida species. It is more prevalent in hot and humid climates and usually presents with itching, pain, ear blockage, and occasionally otorrhea. Conventional treatment includes ear toileting and topical antifungals, yet recurrence and resistance are frequent concerns. In the Unani system of medicine, Marham-e-Kafoori, a camphor-based classical formulation, is described to possess Dāfi‘-i-Ta‘affun (antiseptic), Musakkin (analgesic), and Tabrīd (cooling) properties, which may offer therapeutic benefits in such cases. We report the case of a 27-year-old male who presented with right ear blockage, pain, itching, and heaviness for 20 days following the use of non-sterile oil in the ear. Otoscopic examination revealed dark and whitish debris with blackish fungal spots obscuring the tympanic membrane, and tuning fork tests suggested conductive hearing loss. The patient was managed with aural toilet followed by the daily insertion of a cotton wick impregnated with Marham-e-Kafoori for two weeks. Marked symptomatic relief was achieved within the first week, and complete resolution occurred by the end of the second week with no recurrence during follow-up. This case highlights the potential of Marham-e-Kafoori as a safe, cost-effective, and integrative treatment for otomycosis.