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Erythromycin in acute laryngitis in adults
L Schalén1, I Eliasson, C Kamme
1Department of Otolaryngology, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Erythromycin effectively eliminated Moraxella catarrhalis in adults with acute laryngitis, but did not impact Hemophilus influenzae. While generally not warranted, antibiotics may benefit those professionally dependent on voice function.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Moraxella catarrhalis and Hemophilus influenzae are frequently isolated from the nasopharynx in adults with acute laryngitis.
- These bacteria are suspected to play a role in the pathogenesis of acute laryngitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of erythromycin ethylsuccinate in eliminating nasopharyngeal pathogens in adults with acute laryngitis.
- To assess the impact of erythromycin on clinical signs and subjective complaints associated with acute laryngitis.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 106 adults with acute laryngitis.
- Patients received either erythromycin ethylsuccinate (0.5 g twice daily for 5 days) or a placebo.
- Bacterial isolation rates, clinical examinations, and subjective symptom reporting were assessed.
Main Results:
- Erythromycin significantly improved the elimination of Moraxella catarrhalis compared to placebo (p < or = .00038).
- Erythromycin did not affect the elimination of Hemophilus influenzae.
- No significant differences in laryngitis, pharyngitis, or rhinitis were observed between groups.
- Fewer voice and coughing complaints were reported in the erythromycin group.
Conclusions:
- Erythromycin demonstrates efficacy in eradicating Moraxella catarrhalis in acute laryngitis.
- Antibiotic treatment for acute laryngitis is generally not recommended due to its self-limiting nature.
- Erythromycin may be considered for individuals whose professional voice function is critical.