Risk Factors for Otitis Media in Pediatric Patients With Cleft Lip and/or Cleft Palate: Systematic Review and

Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 17, 2025

Method of Studying Palatal Fusion using Static Organ Culture
04:58

Method of Studying Palatal Fusion using Static Organ Culture

Published on: September 19, 2015

8.9K

Arshbir Aulakh1, Arshroop Khaira2, Murad Husein3,4

  • 1Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada.

The Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal : Official Publication of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association
|July 1, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Children with cleft lip and palate (CLP) and cleft palate (CP) have a higher risk of otitis media (OM). Age and sex were not significant risk factors for OM in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Health
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Otitis media (OM) is a common childhood infection, particularly prevalent in children with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P).
  • Understanding the specific risk factors associated with OM in this vulnerable population is crucial for timely intervention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and meta-analyze existing literature to identify significant risk factors for otitis media (OM) in pediatric patients with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P).

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive systematic review was conducted across major databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, Web of Science) following PRISMA guidelines.
  • Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan5.4.1, including cross-sectional, retrospective, and prospective studies involving pediatric patients with CL/P and OM.
  • Key risk factors evaluated included age, gender, and cleft type and size, with OM incidence as the primary outcome measure.

Main Results:

  • Eighteen studies encompassing 2272 children with CL/P were analyzed.
  • No significant differences in OM incidence were found based on gender or age (≤2 years vs. >2 years).
  • Children with cleft lip and palate (CLP) and cleft palate (CP) alone showed significantly higher OM incidences compared to those with cleft lip (CL) alone. Cleft palate severity (Veau III and IV) also correlated with higher OM incidence.

Conclusions:

  • Cleft lip and palate (CLP) and isolated cleft palate (CP) are identified as significant risk factors for otitis media (OM) in children.
  • Age and gender do not appear to be significant risk factors for OM development in children with CL/P.
  • These findings underscore the importance of considering cleft type and severity in the management of OM in pediatric patients.

Keywords:
cleft lip and palateotitis mediapediatricsrisk factorssystematic review

More Related Videos

Author Spotlight: Investigating Wound Healing in Mice Models of Oronasal Fistulas03:51

Author Spotlight: Investigating Wound Healing in Mice Models of Oronasal Fistulas

Published on: September 8, 2023

1.2K
CO2-Lasertonsillotomy Under Local Anesthesia in Adults05:07

CO2-Lasertonsillotomy Under Local Anesthesia in Adults

Published on: November 6, 2019

24.8K

Related Concept Videos

Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection01:26

Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection

The hosts' susceptibility to infection depends on several factors. The integrity of the skin and mucous membranes helps protect the body against microbial attacks. When the skin is altered, the chance of infection, limb loss, and even death increases.
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
12.3K
Chronic Pharyngitis01:23

Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis refers to persistent inflammation of the pharyngial mucosa.
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
5.2K
Tonsillitis I: Introduction01:30

Tonsillitis I: Introduction

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, which are two lymphoid tissue masses at the back of the throat. This condition can cause discomfort and irritation in the throat.
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
584
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management01:26

Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management

Patients with esophageal strictures often experience a range of symptoms. Initially, they may have difficulty swallowing solid foods, which can progress to include liquids. Additional symptoms may involve chest pain or discomfort, regurgitating food and fluids, heartburn, unintentional weight loss, coughing or choking during meals, and hoarseness.
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
163