Related Experiment Videos
Effect of inflammation of the ventilatory function of the eustachian tube
The Laryngoscope
|April 1, 1977
Insights
Upper respiratory infections can impair Eustachian tube function in children with recurrent ear effusions. This study monitored Eustachian tube function during and after infections to assess these effects.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Recurrent middle ear effusions are common in children.
- Eustachian tube dysfunction is implicated in middle ear disease.
- The impact of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) on Eustachian tube function requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of upper respiratory tract infections on the ventilatory function of the Eustachian tube in children.
- To assess changes in Eustachian tube function during and after URTI episodes.
Main Methods:
- Studied 20 children with recurrent acute or chronic middle ear effusions.
- Performed baseline Eustachian tube function tests in the absence of URTI symptoms.
- Repeated function tests at six-week intervals and during URTI episodes.
Main Results:
- Data on Eustachian tube function during URTI episodes were collected.
- Changes in ventilatory function were observed following URTIs.
Conclusions:
- Upper respiratory tract infections can alter Eustachian tube ventilatory function in children with middle ear effusions.
- Findings highlight the role of URTIs in the pathophysiology of recurrent otitis media.
Abstract:
In an attempt to determine the effect of an upper respiratory tract infection on the ventilatory function of the Eustachian tube, 20 children who had recurrent acute or chronic middle ear effusions were studied. Baseline Eustachian tube function testing was obtained when there were no signs or symptoms of upper respiratory infection. These tests were repeated at six-week intervals and whenever an upper respiratory tract infection supervened.