Acute Otitis Media- An Update

Abstract

Objective: To review the literature about Acute otitis media (AOM). Introduction: AOM is a common condition with an incidence of 10.8/ 100 people per year; it is more common in pediatric age group and tends to occur more in male patients. It is considered the main cause of prescribing antibiotics in pediatrics. Physicians tend to over diagnose this disease leading to an unnecessary antibiotics prescription which exposes the child to an unwanted side effects mainly diarrhea. USA spends $2-3.5 billion per year for the treatment of AOM. Taking these points in our mind, it is important to know how to accurately diagnose this condition and how to treat it and what is the pathophysiology that underlies that disease, all of which are discussed in details in this review article. Methodology: a comprehensive review of the literature about AOM. Results: AOM is a result of different host, environmental, microbiological and genetic factors. It is highly related to upper respiratory infection and the disease is thought to be viral in origin with bacterial superinfection happens later on. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has the best link with AOM. Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis are still the most important pathogens. It is a symptomatic disease; Ear pain is the most important symptom, and bulging of the tympanic membrane is the most important sign that can lead to diagnosis. The American Academy of Pediatrics has put certain guidelines for the treatment of AOM. Prevetive measures play an important role in decreasing of its incidence. Conclusion: AOM has an impact on the child, family, and the community as a whole, in term of health and costs.