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Review
. 2014 Oct;47(5):651-72.
doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2014.06.006. Epub 2014 Aug 1.

Contemporary concepts in management of acute otitis media in children

Eleni Rettig  1 , David E Tunkel  2
Affiliations
Review

Contemporary concepts in management of acute otitis media in children

Eleni Rettig et al. Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2014 Oct.

Abstract

Acute otitis media (AOM) is a common disease of childhood. AOM is most appropriately diagnosed by careful otoscopy with an understanding of clinical signs and symptoms. The distinction between AOM and chronic otitis media with effusion should be emphasized. Treatment should include pain management, and initial antibiotic treatment should be given to those most likely to benefit, including young children, children with severe symptoms, and those with otorrhea and/or bilateral AOM. Tympanostomy tube placement may be helpful for those who experience frequent episodes of AOM or fail medical therapy. Recent practice guidelines may assist the clinician with such decisions.

Keywords: Acute otitis media; Clinical practice guidelines; Ear infections; Middle ear effusion; Tympanostomy tubes.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Acute mastoiditis, characterized by postauricular erythema and swelling.
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