Related Experiment Videos
Effect of erythromycin on adenoid bacteria
Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate reduced some bacteria in secretory otitis media patients but failed to eliminate Hemophilus influenzae, which can persist in adenoids and the middle ear.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Secretory otitis media (SOM) is a common condition often associated with bacterial colonization of the nasopharynx and adenoids.
- Identifying effective antimicrobial agents for treating SOM and preventing recurrence is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of erythromycin ethylsuccinate in reducing bacterial colonization in patients with SOM undergoing adenoidectomy and tympanostomy.
Main Methods:
- Seventy-eight patients with SOM received erythromycin ethylsuccinate for 7-8 days prior to surgery.
- Bacterial cultures of nasopharyngeal swabs and adenoid homogenates were performed before and after treatment, and at surgery.
Main Results:
- Erythromycin ethylsuccinate significantly reduced Streptococcus pneumoniae and Branhamella strains.
- No significant reduction was observed in Hemophilus influenzae.
- These bacteria partially returned one month post-surgery, with some new colonizations observed.
Conclusions:
- Erythromycin ethylsuccinate can partially sterilize the nasopharynx and adenoids in SOM patients, but is ineffective against Hemophilus influenzae.
- The drug does not fully eradicate bacteria from the adenoids or middle ear when Hemophilus influenzae is present.