Otitis media with effusion: from etiopathogenesis to treatment

Abstract

Otitis media with effusion is a frequent pathology in children. It's due to tubal dysfonction and/or inflammation of the middle ear. The warning signs vary according to the age of the child. They can be hypoacusis, otalgia, a language disorder or school decline. The diagnosis is clinical and is confirmed by impedancemetry. An audiometric evaluation is mandatory before any treatment. Even the resolution of the disease is frequent, serious complications can occur such as repercussions on the tympanic structure and/or on the development of the child. Monitoring for three months is recommended in the absence of signs of seriousness. Medical treatment with corticosteroids and antibiotics has no place. Treatment is based on management of contributing factors and surgical treatment.