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Bacteriology of middle ear effusions.
K H Calhoun1, W B Norris, J A Hokanson
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77550.
Southern Medical Journal
|March 1, 1988
Summary
Middle ear effusions (MEEs) in children often contain bacteria, with Haemophilus influenzae being the most common pathogen. Most H. influenzae strains showed sensitivity to common antibiotics like erythromycin and ampicillin.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Middle ear effusions (MEEs) are common in children.
- Myringotomy and tube insertion are standard procedures for MEEs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the microbial profile of MEEs in children undergoing myringotomy.
- To determine the antibiotic sensitivity of isolated pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Fluid samples collected from 908 myringotomy procedures in 495 children (4 months-12 years).
- Samples cultured for bacterial identification and sensitivity testing.
- Demographic data including age and sex were recorded.
Main Results:
- Bacteria were cultured from approximately 20% of MEE samples.
- Haemophilus influenzae was the predominant pathogen, accounting for nearly 50% of isolates.
- H. influenzae prevalence decreased with increasing age.
- High sensitivity rates observed for H. influenzae: ~90% to erythromycin, ~75% to ampicillin and cephalosporin.
Conclusions:
- Bacterial infections are present in a significant portion of pediatric MEEs.
- Haemophilus influenzae is a key pathogen in pediatric otitis media with effusion.
- Antibiotic resistance patterns suggest susceptibility to erythromycin, ampicillin, and cephalosporin for H. influenzae.