Chronic otitis media (COM) is one of the common infectious diseases among children worldwide, characterized by persistent ear discharge and a permanent tympanic membrane perforation [1]. The incidence of COM is noticeably higher in developing countries due to low socioeconomic standards, inadequate nutrition and lack of health education and it is the most significant contributing factor to hearing loss in rural areas [2]. COM is a polymicrobial infection, with aerobic bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative bacilli (including Pseudomonas aeruginosa), considered the primary causative agents [3]. Advancements in anaerobic bacteriology have highlighted the role of anaerobes in chronic infections, including COM. Their presence in otogenic intracranial infections and the foul-smelling ear discharge seen in COM suggest that anaerobic bacteria are important contributors to its pathogenesis [4].

Anaerobic bacteria, like Bacteroides spp. and Peptostreptococcus spp., play an essential role in the bacterial etiology of COM. Anaerobic cultures are sporadically requested by the clinicians, as a result, the role of anaerobes in the disease pathogenesis is often overlooked. This can lead to incomplete/inappropriate treatment, which ultimately contributes to treatment failure, persistent or recurrent infections and emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Understanding its microbiology is critical for optimal treatment, for preventing complications and the development of antibiotic resistance [5]. In this study, we aimed to identify the common anaerobes that are isolated from patients suffering from COM.