Otitis Media: Diagnosis and Treatment

Acute otitis media (AOM) is a common pediatric infection often following a viral upper respiratory tract illness. AOM is diagnosed by acute onset, middle ear effusion, inflammation, and symptoms like pain or fever. It commonly follows eustachian tube dysfunction and is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Management starts with pain control; antibiotics may be deferred in children aged ≥2 with mild symptoms. High-dose amoxicillin is first-line therapy, while amoxicillin/clavulanate is recommended if symptoms persist after 48–72 hours. Otitis media with effusion, lacking acute symptoms, should not be treated with antibiotics or decongestants. Referral is advised for complications like hearing loss or delayed speech.