The role of histamine in secretory otitis media

Secretory otitis media is the most common cause of hearing loss in children. Although allergy has been suggested as a possible cause, its role as an etiologic factor in the formation of secretory otitis media is controversial. The presence of histamine in most middle ear effusions is thought to be generated from inflammatory and not allergic provocation. This potent mediator of inflammation may contribute to the chronicity of secretory otitis media.