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Otitis media is the most common bacterial infection occurring in children, and it is the most commonly diagnosed illness in childhood. This infection occurs in half of all infants before their first birthday and in 80% by their third birthday. Half of all infected children will have 3 or more episodes in their first 3 years of life.
Pathophysiology
Otitis media is classified as either acute otitis media or otitis media with effusion.
Acute Otitis Media consists of inflammation otitis media, ear infection of the middle ear, presenting with a rapid onset of symptoms and clinical signs of ear pathology. Fever and ear pain are the most common acute symptoms. Irritability, anorexia, vomiting, and diarrhea may also be present.
Acute otitis media is most common in children otitis media, ear infection 6 months to 3 years. The majority of children have had at least one episode of acute otitis by age 3. It is uncommon after age 8. The incidence rises during winter and falls during summer.Predisposing Factors for Otitis Media
Biologic Factors. Adenoid hypertrophy, male gender, family history, congenital anomalies (cleft palate), prematurity, and low birth weight.
Environmental Factors. Exposure to passive smoke, frequent upper respiratory infections.
Pathophysiology, Treatment and Prevention
Viral infection or allergic responses may cause changes in the eustachian tube and middle ear that predispose to bacterial infection.