[Rhinitis, sore throate and otalgia... Benign common cold or dangerous infection?]

Abstract

One of mankind's most common illnesses is rhinitis, which almost regularly leads to involvement of the paranasal sinuses. Acute sinusitis is a consequence of a viral infection which, by damaging the mucosa, opens the door to bacterial superinfection. The aim of treatment is to cure the acute inflammation, re-establish normal drainage and ventilation, and prevent the development of "rhinosinugenic" complications. Acute otitis media is also preceded by viral damage to the mucosa. In children, acute otitis media is favored by the short, straight Eustachian tube, and often by adenoids. The therapeutic aim of antibiotic treatment and decongestive nose drops is to re-establish the draining function of the tube. Children who suffer from otitis media several times a year, need adenoidectomy. Acute tonsillitis, or quinsy, should be distinguished in particular from infectious mononucleosis. It is imperative to recognize a peritonsillar abscess, which requires more aggressive treatment.