Otorhinolaryngology – not just tonsils and grommets: Insights into the ENT scene in South Africa

Editor's Choice

“…An editorial [9] and three papers [10][11][12] offer insight into the practice of otorhinolaryngology in this country.…”

“…Much in the news lately, and featured in the May SAMJ in the context of cancer of the cervix, oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV type 16) is now linked to oropharyngeal squamous carcinoma, with a prevalence in oropharyngeal cancer, especially tonsillar cancer, as high as 90%. [9] Chronic otitis media remains a vexing problem among our children, often present for years before definitive ENT treatment. Not surprisingly, there is a high complication rate.…”

Efficacy of a Homeopathic Complex on Acute Viral Tonsillitis

“…2 In South Africa, around 50% of pediatric general practitioner visits involve complaints arising from the upper respiratory tract. 5 Diagnosis of acute viral tonsillitis is based on clinical evaluation. A rapid antigen test, such as the Avipath Rapid Strep Test (ARST) and/or culture, may be done to diagnose cases of bacterial origin.…”

Turning up the volume on hearing loss in South Africa

“…[9] Other highrisk groups include patients taking various drugs that can cause ototoxicity, including antituberculosis drugs, chemotherapeutic agents and antiretrovirals (ARVs), aetiologies particularly relevant in SA medical practice. [10] Early identification through screening programmes can effectively reduce the burden of deafness by 50%, but this is restricted to a large extent by socioeconomic factors. [11] In developed communities, service delivery models from screening to diagnosis work effectively in all high-risk populations through institutionbased programmes in communities with existing infrastructure and access to healthcare.…”

“…[10] Interventions principally involve rehabilitation and aim to prevent the disability posed by restricted hearing loss from becoming one that limits participation in society at large. They include family-orientated support services, special education and access to social integration.…”