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[Acute infectious disease of otolaryngology focus]
C Vaduva1, J I Tato Gómez1, D Mora Zaid1
1Servicio de Otorrinolaringología, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, España.
Abstract:
Infections are the most common cause of antibiotic prescription and one of the most frequent reasons for consultation in Primary Care. Among them, stand out acute media otitis and diffuse external otitis, acute pharyngitis and acute rhinosinusitis. Commonly they are viral and self-limited, so their complications are rare. Currently, the indiscriminate use of antibiotics have leaded to bacterial resistances; therefore antibiotic prescription should be more careful. Nowadays, several diagnostic strategies are available. In current updated etiological and pathophysiological factors of each infection, diagnostic and therapeutic strategy to be applied in Primary Care as well as the complications of each pathology and the referral indications to be assessed by specialists in the ENT area, will be reviewed.
Insights
Antibiotic overuse for common Primary Care infections like otitis and pharyngitis fuels bacterial resistance. Careful diagnosis and judicious antibiotic prescribing are crucial to preserve treatment effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Primary Care Medicine
Context:
- Infections are the leading cause of antibiotic prescriptions in Primary Care.
- Common infections include acute otitis media, diffuse external otitis, acute pharyngitis, and acute rhinosinusitis.
- Many of these infections are viral and self-limiting, with rare complications.
Purpose:
- To review updated etiological and pathophysiological factors for common Primary Care infections.
- To outline current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for these infections in Primary Care.
- To detail potential complications and ENT referral indications.
Summary:
- Antibiotic misuse in Primary Care contributes to rising bacterial resistance.
- Updated etiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches are essential.
- Focus on judicious prescribing, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate specialist referral.
Impact:
- Promotes responsible antibiotic stewardship in Primary Care.
- Aims to reduce the incidence of antibiotic resistance.
- Enhances patient outcomes through evidence-based management of ear, nose, and throat infections.
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