Aspiration cytology in acute otitis media

One hundred and ninety-three middle ear effusion samples from patients with acute otitis media were studied for cellular content and bacteria. Findings were compared with clinical and radiological data. In samples positive for pathogenic bacteria (Haemophilus, pneumococci) neutrophils predominated, whereas monocytes or phagocytes were more numerous in samples with nonpathogens. Inflammatory cells were more frequent in large than in small mastoid air cell systems. Destruction of cell walls was associated with increase of neutrophils and sclerosis with preponderance of lymphocytes, monocytes and phagocytes.