Otitis media Flashcards
1
Q
What is otitis media & what are its causes & pathophysiology?
A
Inflammation of the middle ear due to infection.
Caused mainly by blocked eustachian tube;
- Majority due to upper resp. tract infection causing swelling of mucous membranes in nasopharynx blocking eustachian tube
- Stasis allows bacteria to infect (eg steptococcus pneumoniae)
- Effusion can occur due to negative pressure when blocked
Chronic suppurative otitis media involves a perforated tympanic membrance & active bacterial infection, pus may drain out the ear (otorrhea)
2
Q
What is the clinical presentation of otitis media?
A
- Ear pain
- Fever
- Otorrhea (discharge from ear) if chronic suppurative otitis media
- Hearing impairment
- Often upper resp. tract infection symptoms
3
Q
How do you treat otitis media?
A
- Analgesia
- Antibiotics
- Delay for 3 days if manageable
- Amoxicillin
