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The occurrence of otitis media with effusion in Dutch pre-school children
G A Zielhuis1, G H Rach, P Van den Broek
1Department of Epidemiology, University of Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Insights
Otitis media with effusion is common in preschoolers, with over 80% experiencing it by age four. This study highlights high prevalence rates and seasonal variations in young children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Otolaryngology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Published data on otitis media with effusion (OME) prevalence in preschoolers lacks uniform age-specific rates.
- Understanding OME frequency is crucial for pediatric health management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the age-specific rates and prevalence of otitis media with effusion in a cohort of Dutch preschoolers.
- To identify seasonal variations in OME occurrence.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 1439 children aged 2 years was followed until age 4.
- Serial tympanometry was performed on 9 consecutive occasions.
- Screening participation rates ranged from 87% to 73% over the study period.
Main Results:
- Prevalence rates of OME were higher than previously reported in the literature.
- At least 80% of children experienced OME at least once before age four.
- A distinct seasonal variation in OME rates was observed.
Conclusions:
- Middle ear effusion may be considered a 'physiological' condition in preschool-aged children, with certain pathological exceptions.
- High OME prevalence underscores the need for further research into its management and long-term implications.
Abstract:
Published data on the frequency of otitis media with effusion in pre-school children do not give a uniform view about the age-specific rates. A cohort of 1439 2-year-old children in the Netherlands was followed using serial tympanometry on 9 consecutive occasions up to 4 years of age. The screening rate decreased from 87% on the first occasion to 73% on the last round. The prevalence rates in this study are high compared to results quoted in the literature. At least 80% of the children had otitis media with effusion on at least one occasion before the age of four. Distinct seasonal variation was found in the rates. It is postulated that middle ear effusion is a 'physiological' phenomenon at pre-school age with some pathological exceptions.