Acute Otitis Media

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Inflammation of middle ear

-Acute if less than 3 in 6 months

Question 2

Aetiology

Answer 2

Very common in children (usually bilateral)
Often follows URTI
May be viral (2/3) or bacterial (1/3)

Common Organisms
-Strep. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, M. catarrhalis

Question 3

Clinical Features

Answer 3

Otalgia (sudden relief if perforation)
Deafness (conductive)

Fever
Bulging, red tympanic membrane with visible fluid level

Question 4

Management

Answer 4

MEDICAL

• Analgesia
• Decongestants
• Antibiotics (amoxicillin)
• Recurrent infection should be swabbed and appropriate antiB given

SURGICAL
Myringotomy