title: An evidence-based approach to managing acute otitis media.
abstract: Acute otitis media is one of the most common pediatric illnesses; however, there is considerable controversy in its management. While most cases are treated with antibiotics, there is a growing concern regarding antibiotic overuse and subsequent drug resistance. Researchers in the Netherlands have developed a "watchful waiting" (ie, an observation approach) that has been successful in treating acute otitis media, although it has not gained widespread popularity in the United States. This review will summarize the latest research on diagnosing acute otitis media as well as different treatment regimens, including the efficacy of the watchful-waiting approach.
authors: Department of Emergency Medicine, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
authors: Chadd E
authors: CE
authors: Nesbit
authors: Margaret C
authors: MC
authors: Powers
mesh_terms: D000208:Acute Disease; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D019091:Critical Pathways; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D006633:Histamine Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008417:Mastoiditis / Q000209:etiology; D008581:Meningitis / Q000209:etiology; D008876:Middle Ear Ventilation; D014663:Nasal Decongestants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010033:Otitis Media / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D010035:Otitis Media, Suppurative / Q000628:therapy; D038781:Otoscopy; D059408:Pain Management; D010808:Physical Examination; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012308:Risk Management; D057832:Watchful Waiting
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D006633:Histamine Antagonists; D014663:Nasal Decongestants