Chronic suppurative otitis media.
OBJECTIVE
To review various aspects of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM).


METHODS
A MEDLINE search and extensive review of articles provided the information for this review.


METHODS
Studies describing the epidemiology, microbiology, risk factors, pathology, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and recurrence of CSOM were included.


RESULTS
Pseudomonas aeruginosa and anaerobes are the most predominant bacteria found in CSOM. Treatment with otic, oral, or parenteral drugs (e.g., neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone otic, ciprofloxacin, ceftazidime, or aminoglycosides) should be guided by ear fluid culture results. Prompt treatment with effective and safe antibiotics may prevent complications of CSOM.


CONCLUSIONS
Treatment of CSOM has improved as a result of availability of effective otic and oral antibiotics. Treatment of the anaerobic infection with antibiotics should be studied further.
Wintermeyer
S M
SM
Ohio State University, Columbus.
Nahata
M C
MC
D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D010035:Otitis Media, Suppurative / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000382:microbiology / Q000628:therapy; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors