Cochlear Dysfunction in Chronic Otitis Media and Its Determinants.

Introduction: Long-standing chronic otitis media (COM) may lead to sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The present study aimed to evaluate the factors affecting the sensorineural component to counsel patients regarding the risk of SNHL at the event of untreated COM.

Material And Methods: A time-bound cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at a tertiary care hospital.

Merkel Cells: A Collective Review of Current Concepts.

Merkel cells (MCs) constitute a very unique population of postmitotic cells scattered along the dermo-epidermal junction. These cells that have synaptic contacts with somatosensory afferents are regarded to have a pivotal role in sensory discernment. Several concerns exist till date as to their origin, multiplication, and relevance in skin biology.

Experience of Domestic Violence and Psychological Morbidity in Spouses of Alcohol-Dependent Males.

Background: Prevalence of both domestic violence (DV) and alcohol use is reported to be high in Kerala. The prevalence of DV and psychological morbidity in spouses of alcohol-dependent males has not been studied objectively.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was undertaken to study the occurrence of DV and psychological morbidity-major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety disorders, and adjustment disorders-in spouses of alcohol-dependent males attending the de-addiction center of a tertiary care hospital in South India.