ACUTE OTITIS MEDIA

• This condition is another common ______ of the common cold

  sequela
• This occurs because viral infections lead to inflammation of the eustachian tubes and buildup of fluid in the middle ear
• Bacteria can migrate along the eustachian tube from the upper respiratory tract to the middle ear
• When bacteria encounter mucus and fluid buildup in the middle ear, they multiply rapidly. Their presence increases the inflammatory response, leading to pus production and continued fluid secretion. This fluid is referred to as effusion.
• In chronic otitis media, fluid builds up in the eustachian tubes
• Cause of chronic otitis media

  mixed biofilm of bacteria attached to the membrane of the inner ear
• Otitis media often causes a sensation of fullness or pain in the ear and loss of hearing
• Younger children may exhibit irritability, trouble sleeping, eating, or hearing
• Severe or untreated infections can lead to rupture of the eardrum because of pressure of pus buildup. It can also lead to mastoiditis, meningitis, or intracranial abscess.
• Most common causative agents:

  • S. Pneumoniae - gram + diplococci
  • Candida auris - fungus, emerging & worrying cause
• Causative agent resistant to most antifungals

  Candida auris
• Prevention for S. Pneumoniae

  Pneumococcal conjugated vaccine (PCV13)
• This is often the treatment for acute otitis media

  watchful waiting for 72 hours
• What can also help treat Acute otitis media

  Ear candle treatment
• This can also be caused by?

  Hib