[Morphological changes in the middle ear and tubal lining through antibiotic treatment (author's transl)]

Chemotherapy has not only changes the clinical picture but also the pathological features of otitis media. As a consequence, reactive forms of the middle ear mucosa include purulent inflammation as well as cellular proliferation and granulation. Complications result from defective healing caused by the inability of the mucosa to organize clearance of the tympanic cleft. Because of a lack of drainage, the effusion remains in situ and alters the function of the middle ear mucosa. Subsequently, the inflammatory reaction diminishes, as can be seen on smears from tympanic effusions. Leucocytes are more or less displaced by phagocytes. We also gave special attention to morphological details in the Eustachian tube. We could demonstrate the great importance of the mucosa as a defence mechanism against infection. The so-called tubal tonsil is an important part of the local immune organ system. The salivary glands adjacent to the tube provide a secretion, which allows the ciliary activity to function. Surface active substances in the secretion influence the opening mechanism of the tube. In disease states, disturbances of this secretion may prevent ventilation of the tympanic cleft.