Otitis Media & Tonsillitis Flashcards
What is Otitis Media? How common is it?
It is a middle ear infection which is very common in children. Most children have 1 episode between 6months and 1 year. It can be caused by both viruses and bacteria.
It can be classified as acute or chronic.
What are the signs and symptoms of otitis media?
Child will complain of an ear ache.
O/e: The tympanic membrane will be red and inflamed. There may be a perforation (this will cause a conductive loss).
How is otitis media treated?
It is self limiting so is treated with simple analgesia.
What are the signs of symptoms of chronic otitis media?
Chronic otitis media = Otitis media with effusion
Common in 2-7yo’s
Causes a conductive hearing loss.
Patient may be asymptomatic and it may present with delayed development or difficulty in school.
O/e: Tympanic membrane will appear dull and retracted, may be able to see a fluid level.
On tympanomomettry there will be a flat line.
How is chronic otitis media treated?
It is self limiting but there are some circumstances when grommets may be fitted.
What is tonsillitis and what are the causative organisms?
It is a form of pharyngitis in which there is swelling of the palatine tonsils.
It is commonly caused by group A strep and EBV. More commonly it is viral however.
What are the symptoms of tonsilitis?
Sore throat and swollen tonsils.
Cervical lymphadenopathy.
Headache, malaise, fever.
What is the treatment for tonsillitis?
If viral it is supportive if bacterial it is abx.
In practice abx are reserved for more severe cases or persistent cases.
Avoid amoxicillin as it cause a papular rash if the tonsillitis is caused by EBV (glandular fever)
What are the indications for a tonsillectomy?
5 or more episodes in 1 year
Peritonsillar abscess
Obstructive sleep apnoea
