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Rhinovirus in otitis media with effusion
Abstract:
We studied rhinovirus in the middle ear fluid of 61 children with subacute or chronic otitis media with effusion. Rhinovirus was recovered from the middle ear fluid of 5 children with subacute otitis media with effusion. The minimum duration of effusion was 32 to 60 days. Additionally, 1 patient had middle ear fluid that was positive for adenovirus. Bacterial pathogens were cultured from the middle ear fluid of 20 of 61 patients. Our finding that rhinovirus can be isolated from middle ear fluid after an asymptomatic period of several weeks suggests its possible role in the development of otitis media with effusion.
Insights
Rhinovirus was detected in middle ear fluid of children with otitis media with effusion, suggesting a potential role for this virus in the development of the condition.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Virology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Otitis media with effusion (OME) is common in children.
- The role of viral pathogens in OME remains under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and potential role of rhinovirus in middle ear fluid of children with subacute or chronic otitis media with effusion.
Main Methods:
- Middle ear fluid samples were collected from 61 children diagnosed with subacute or chronic OME.
- Samples were analyzed for the presence of rhinovirus, adenovirus, and bacterial pathogens.
Main Results:
- Rhinovirus was identified in the middle ear fluid of 5 children (8.2%) with subacute OME, with effusion durations ranging from 32 to 60 days.
- Adenovirus was detected in one patient.
- Bacterial pathogens were cultured from 20 of the 61 patients (32.8%).
Conclusions:
- Rhinovirus can be isolated from middle ear fluid weeks after an asymptomatic period.
- These findings suggest a potential role for rhinovirus in the pathogenesis of otitis media with effusion in children.