Prevalence of Fungal Infections in Patients with Nasal Polyposis in Babylon Governorate

Background: Nasal polyps are caused by frequent local respiratory sinus or nasal mucosal swelling. Antibiotic overuse and air pollution in overcrowded cities have resulted in the proliferation of many fungi, including saprophytes and pathogens, causing the emergence of various disorders. Objectives: The aim of this study is to identify the prevalence of fungal infections in cases of nasal polyposis in Babylon, Iraq. Materials and Methods: During 6 months, mucosal samples from 60 patients with nasal polyposis were obtained. The patients included 43 males and 17 females. The samples were separated into two portions: One was placed in normal saline, while the other was in formalin and sent for microbiological examination for fungi and pathological examination, respectively. Results: Nasal polyps were collected from 60 patients (43 males and 17 females), with a male/female ratio of 2.6:1. The age groups are between 12 and 60 years, with a mean age of 37 years. A positive direct smear for fungus was positive in four patients’ samples. A positive culture of fungi was found in six patients’ samples; four fungal species were identified as Aspergillus flavus and two species as Aspergillus fumigates . Histopathological examination showed inflammatory sinonasal polyposis in 58 samples and inverted papilloma in two samples. Submucosal fungal hyphae were found in three samples. Conclusion: Fungal infections of the nose and sinuses coupled with nasal polyps used to be considered uncommon. However, they have now become less rare. This disease was found even in immunocompetent individuals. Aspergillus was the most prevalent type of fungus, with adult males being more predominant.