Kennisvragen

During the development of this module, a systematic search was conducted to find studies that could answer the research question. Through the use of a systematic literature review with an assessment of the strength of evidence, it has become clear that there are still knowledge gaps within this module. The guideline panel believes that further research is desirable to provide clearer answers to practical questions in the future. 

Question

Are polysaccharides of the fungal cell wall (galactomannan) detectabale in patients’ serum in case of an untreated NOE by aspergillus fumigatus?

Explanation

Aspergillus species are the fungal pathogens dat can be the cause of necrotizing otitis externa.  For invasive fungal infections in other organs  like pneumonia it is standard of care to screen for fungal-components in the blood of patients.  We question whether this marker might be helpful as a non-invasive marker  in our patients with (suspected) NOE.