Overview
RN Lesson — Otitis Media
1. Overview Otitis media is inflammation or infection involving the middle ear, the air filled space behind the tympanic membrane.
- Overview Otitis media is inflammation or infection involving the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the tympanic membrane. It is common in infants and children because the pediatric eustachian tube is shorter, more horizontal, and more easily obstructed by viral upper respiratory infections, allergies, or enlarged adenoids. The major forms are: Type Meaning Key Point Acute otitis media — AOM Rapid onset middle-ear infection with inflammation and effusion Often presents with otalgia, fever, irritability, bulging tympanic membrane Otitis media with effusion — OME Fluid behind the tympanic membrane without acute infection signs Antibiotics are usually not indicated Recurrent AOM Repeated AOM episodes May require hearing evaluation or ENT referral Chronic suppurative otitis media Persistent drainage through perforated tympanic membrane Higher risk for hearing complications Diagnosis of AOM requires evidence of middle-ear effusion and acute inflammation, not just ear pain alone. Current pediatric guidance emphasizes accurate diagnosis, pain control, and selective antibiotic use rather than automatic antibiotics for every child. 2. Pathophysiology Most AOM episodes begin after a viral upper respiratory infection. Inflammation causes eustachian tube edema, which traps fluid...