Otitis media

Abstract

Complications of otitis media include infectious and inflammatory processes that result from spread of infection beyond the middle ear space, as well as long-term effects of middle ear disease on tympanic structures and language development. The incidence of otitis media in the United States is rising. This is due, in large part, to the rapid spread of upper respiratory illness facilitated by daycare facilities that are increasingly attended by younger children and infants who, anatomically and immunologically, are most susceptible to developing otitis media. Middle ear disease of longstanding duration may result in delays in development of language, social, or motor skills. Inappropriate use of antimicrobial therapy has resulted in increased antibiotic resistance increasing the risk for local, regional, and systemic complications.