Acute otitis media

Definition

Acute otitis media is a rapid-onset infection of the middle ear, often caused by bacteria. It typically results in ear pain, fever, and hearing difficulties.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae are the most common bacterial causes.
2. It is most prevalent in children due to their shorter and more horizontal Eustachian tubes.
3. Symptoms include ear pain, fever, irritability, and fluid drainage from the ear.
4. A bulging tympanic membrane observed via otoscopy is a key diagnostic feature.
5. Antibiotic treatment is commonly prescribed to manage bacterial infections.

Review Questions

Related terms

Streptococcus pneumoniae:

A gram-positive bacterium that commonly causes respiratory infections including acute otitis media.

Haemophilus influenzae:

A gram-negative bacterium known to cause respiratory tract infections such as acute otitis media.

Eustachian tube dysfunction: Impairment of the Eustachian tube's ability to equalize pressure in the middle ear, contributing to conditions like acute otitis media.