Proteinase activity in effusions from children with otitis media with effusion

Proteinase activity has been demonstrated in middle ear effusions from patients suffering from otitis media with effusion. Proteinase activity was characterized by various biochemical, chemical and physical parameters. Chelators and sulfhydryl group reacting substances reduced the enzyme activity. Enzyme activity was positively correlated to the number of granulocytes present in the effusion. No correlation to bacteriological findings or to tympanic membrane status was seen and the proteinase activity showed wide ranges within different categories of middle ear effusions.