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Oxidative stress in chronic otitis media with effusion
Domenico Testa1, Germano Guerra, Giuseppina Marcuccio
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Second University of Naples, Italy. domenico.testa@unina2.it
Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|April 14, 2012
Summary
High oxidant levels in chronic otitis media with effusion (OME) indicate a significant role for oxygen-derived free radicals. Antioxidant treatment improved outcomes in children, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for this common ear condition.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Biochemistry
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a prevalent condition causing conductive hearing loss.
- Inflammatory cells in OME produce superoxide radicals, potentially leading to oxidative stress.
- Glutathione (GSH) is a key endogenous antioxidant crucial for cellular protection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate oxidative stress markers in middle ear (ME) effusions from children with chronic OME.
- To assess the role of oxygen-derived free radicals in the pathogenesis of chronic OME.
Main Methods:
- Middle ear effusion samples were collected from 59 children undergoing myringotomy for chronic OME.
- Lipid peroxide levels, a marker of oxidative damage, were measured in the collected effusions.
Main Results:
- Elevated lipid peroxide levels (mean 11.5 nmole/million cells) were detected in all chronic OME effusion samples.
- These levels are comparable to those observed in other chronic diseases, indicating significant oxidative stress.
Conclusions:
- High oxidant levels in chronic OME suggest oxygen-derived free radicals contribute to the condition's pathology.
- Antioxidant interventions, potentially involving GSH, may be beneficial in managing chronic OME and preventing oxidative stress.
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