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Acute otitis media (AOM) is a common, symptomatic infection of the middle ear. Nasopharyngeal secretions that contain viruses and bacteria can enter the middle ear via the eustachian tube. Usually the middle ear drains well but if there is eustachian tube swelling, fluid from the middle ear may not drain properly. Under these conditions bacteria and viruses present in the middle ear can multiply, creating clinical AOM.

BROWSE INFORMATION REPOSITORY
 
 
Key Resources 

Bottom Line Recommendations: Acute Otitis Media (2022)

Bottom Line Recommendations: Acute Otitis Media (2022)

Download

Dr. Nicole Le Saux

Dr. Nicole Le Saux

Bottom line recommendations for the treatment of acute otitis media. Published online November (2022).

Acute Otitis Media- Emergency Management in Children - Flowchart  (2018)

Acute Otitis Media- Emergency Management in Children - Flowchart

Download

Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Flowchart of emergency management in children for acute otitis media.

Flow diagram for the management of children with suspected and confirmed acute otitis media  (2016)

Flow diagram for the management of children with suspected and confirmed acute otitis media

Visit

Le Saux N, Robinson JL, Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee

Le Saux N, Robinson JL, Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and ...

Flow chart of criteria for management of children with suspected and confirmed acute otitis media based on symptoms of children over 6 months of age.

Videos in clinical medicine. Diagnosing otitis media--otoscopy and cerumen removal  (2010)

Videos in clinical medicine. Diagnosing otitis media--otoscopy and cerumen removal

Visit

Shaikh N, Hoberman A, Kaleida PH, Ploof DL, Paradise JL

Shaikh N, Hoberman A, Kaleida PH, Ploof DL, Paradise JL

Video instructing how to diagnose otitis media with otoscopy and cerum removal.

Recommandations de base: Otite moyenne aigue (2022)

Recommandations de base: Otite moyenne aigue (2022)

Download

Dr. Nicole Le Saux

Dr. Nicole Le Saux

French bottom line recommendations for the treatment of acute otitis media. Published online November, 2022. 

Bottom Line Recommendations: Acute Otitis Media (2022)

Bottom Line Recommendations: Acute Otitis Media (2022)

Download

Dr. Nicole Le Saux

Dr. Nicole Le Saux

Bottom line recommendations for the treatment of acute otitis media. Published online November (2022).

Recommandations de base: Otite moyenne aigue (2022)

Recommandations de base: Otite moyenne aigue (2022)

Download

Dr. Nicole Le Saux

Dr. Nicole Le Saux

French bottom line recommendations for the treatment of acute otitis media. Published online November, 2022. 

Acute Otitis Media- Emergency Management in Children - Flowchart  (2018)

Acute Otitis Media- Emergency Management in Children - Flowchart

Download

Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Flowchart of emergency management in children for acute otitis media.

Flow diagram for the management of children with suspected and confirmed acute otitis media  (2016)

Flow diagram for the management of children with suspected and confirmed acute otitis media

Visit

Le Saux N, Robinson JL, Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee

Le Saux N, Robinson JL, Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and ...

Flow chart of criteria for management of children with suspected and confirmed acute otitis media based on symptoms of children over 6 months of age.

Videos in clinical medicine. Diagnosing otitis media--otoscopy and cerumen removal  (2010)

Videos in clinical medicine. Diagnosing otitis media--otoscopy and cerumen removal

Visit

Shaikh N, Hoberman A, Kaleida PH, Ploof DL, Paradise JL

Shaikh N, Hoberman A, Kaleida PH, Ploof DL, Paradise JL

Video instructing how to diagnose otitis media with otoscopy and cerum removal.

Clinical guidelines 

Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute Otitis Media  (2021)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute Otitis Media

Visit

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne

Guideline on the assessment and management of acute otitis media in children

Clinical Practice Guideline: Otitis media (acute): antimicrobial prescribing  (2021)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Otitis media (acute): antimicrobial prescribing

Download

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) NICE Guideline

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) NICE Guideline

Objective: This guideline sets out an antimicrobial prescribing strategy for acute otitis media (ear infection). aims to limit antibiotic use and reduce antimicrobial resistance.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Diagnosis and management of Pediatric Acute Otitis Media (Ear Infection)  (2019)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Diagnosis and management of Pediatric Acute Otitis Media (Ear Infection)

Visit

Intermountain Healthcare

Intermountain Healthcare

Objective: This CPM provides best-practice recommendations for diagnosis and management of acute otitis media (AOM), including guidance for appropriate use of antibiotics.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Guidelines of the French Society of Otorhinolaryngology (SFORL): Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pediatric ENT infections. Short version  (2019)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Guidelines of the French Society of Otorhinolaryngology (SFORL): Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pediatric ENT infections. Short version

Download

Truffert, E. et al.

Truffert, E. et al.

Objective: To present the guidelines of the French Society of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery concerning the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in pediatric ENT infections.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute otitis media - Emergency management in children  (2018)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute otitis media - Emergency management in children

Visit

Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Children's Health Queensland Statewide Paediatric Guideline for emergency management of acute otitis media in children.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of otitis media with effusion in children. Socit franc aise dORL et de chirurgie cervico-faciale clinical practice guidelines  (2018)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of otitis media with effusion in children. Socit franc aise dORL et de chirurgie cervico-faciale clinical practice guidelines

Visit

Blanc, F. et al.

Blanc, F. et al.

Objective: The Socit franaise dORL et de chirurgie cervico-faciale clinical practice guidelines concern the management of otitis media with effusion (OME) in children under the age of 12 years. They are based on extensive review of MEDLINE and Cochrane Library publications in English or French from 1996 to 2016 concerning the methods of diagnosis and assessment of otitis media with effusion, as well as the efficacy of tympanostomy tubes and medical and surgical treatments of OME.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of acute otitis media in children six months of age and older  (2016)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of acute otitis media in children six months of age and older

Visit

Le Saux N, Robinson JL, Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee

Le Saux N, Robinson JL, Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and ...

Canadian Paediatric Society position statement on the management of acute otitis media in children aged 6 months and older.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Danish guidelines on management of otitis media in preschool children  (2016)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Danish guidelines on management of otitis media in preschool children

Visit

Heidemann CH, Lous J, Berg J, Christensen JJ, Hkonsen SJ, Jakobsen M, Johansen CJ, Nielsen LH, Hansen MP, Poulsen A, Schousboe LP, Skrubbeltrang C, Vind AB, ...

Heidemann CH, Lous J, Berg J, Christensen JJ, Hkonsen SJ, Jakobsen M, Johanse...

The Danish Health and Medicines Authority and the Danish Society of Otorhinolaryngology guidelines regarding the diagnostic criteria for acute otitis media and surgical treatment of recurrent AOM and chronic OME in preschool children.

Clinical Practice Guideline: The diagnosis and management of acute otitis media  (2013)

Clinical Practice Guideline: The diagnosis and management of acute otitis media

Visit

Lieberthal AS, Carroll AE, Chonmaitree T, Ganiats TG, Hoberman A, Jackson MA, Joffe MD, Miller DT, Rosenfeld RM, Sevilla XD, Schwartz RH, Thomas PA, Tunkel DE

Lieberthal AS, Carroll AE, Chonmaitree T, Ganiats TG, Hoberman A, Jackson MA,...

Evidence-based clinical practice guideline from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute Otitis Media  (2021)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute Otitis Media

Visit

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne

Guideline on the assessment and management of acute otitis media in children

Clinical Practice Guideline: Otitis media (acute): antimicrobial prescribing  (2021)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Otitis media (acute): antimicrobial prescribing

Download

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) NICE Guideline

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) NICE Guideline

Objective: This guideline sets out an antimicrobial prescribing strategy for acute otitis media (ear infection). aims to limit antibiotic use and reduce antimicrobial resistance.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Diagnosis and management of Pediatric Acute Otitis Media (Ear Infection)  (2019)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Diagnosis and management of Pediatric Acute Otitis Media (Ear Infection)

Visit

Intermountain Healthcare

Intermountain Healthcare

Objective: This CPM provides best-practice recommendations for diagnosis and management of acute otitis media (AOM), including guidance for appropriate use of antibiotics.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Guidelines of the French Society of Otorhinolaryngology (SFORL): Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pediatric ENT infections. Short version  (2019)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Guidelines of the French Society of Otorhinolaryngology (SFORL): Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pediatric ENT infections. Short version

Download

Truffert, E. et al.

Truffert, E. et al.

Objective: To present the guidelines of the French Society of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery concerning the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in pediatric ENT infections.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute otitis media - Emergency management in children  (2018)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute otitis media - Emergency management in children

Visit

Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

Children's Health Queensland Statewide Paediatric Guideline for emergency management of acute otitis media in children.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of otitis media with effusion in children. Socit franc aise dORL et de chirurgie cervico-faciale clinical practice guidelines  (2018)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of otitis media with effusion in children. Socit franc aise dORL et de chirurgie cervico-faciale clinical practice guidelines

Visit

Blanc, F. et al.

Blanc, F. et al.

Objective: The Socit franaise dORL et de chirurgie cervico-faciale clinical practice guidelines concern the management of otitis media with effusion (OME) in children under the age of 12 years. They are based on extensive review of MEDLINE and Cochrane Library publications in English or French from 1996 to 2016 concerning the methods of diagnosis and assessment of otitis media with effusion, as well as the efficacy of tympanostomy tubes and medical and surgical treatments of OME.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of acute otitis media in children six months of age and older  (2016)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Management of acute otitis media in children six months of age and older

Visit

Le Saux N, Robinson JL, Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee

Le Saux N, Robinson JL, Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and ...

Canadian Paediatric Society position statement on the management of acute otitis media in children aged 6 months and older.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Danish guidelines on management of otitis media in preschool children  (2016)

Clinical Practice Guideline: Danish guidelines on management of otitis media in preschool children

Visit

Heidemann CH, Lous J, Berg J, Christensen JJ, Hkonsen SJ, Jakobsen M, Johansen CJ, Nielsen LH, Hansen MP, Poulsen A, Schousboe LP, Skrubbeltrang C, Vind AB, ...

Heidemann CH, Lous J, Berg J, Christensen JJ, Hkonsen SJ, Jakobsen M, Johanse...

The Danish Health and Medicines Authority and the Danish Society of Otorhinolaryngology guidelines regarding the diagnostic criteria for acute otitis media and surgical treatment of recurrent AOM and chronic OME in preschool children.

Clinical Practice Guideline: The diagnosis and management of acute otitis media  (2013)

Clinical Practice Guideline: The diagnosis and management of acute otitis media

Visit

Lieberthal AS, Carroll AE, Chonmaitree T, Ganiats TG, Hoberman A, Jackson MA, Joffe MD, Miller DT, Rosenfeld RM, Sevilla XD, Schwartz RH, Thomas PA, Tunkel DE

Lieberthal AS, Carroll AE, Chonmaitree T, Ganiats TG, Hoberman A, Jackson MA,...

Evidence-based clinical practice guideline from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Family Physicians.

Summaries of systematic reviews 

Cochrane Summary: Systemic corticosteroids for improving symptoms in children with acute middle ear infection  (2018)

Cochrane Summary: Systemic corticosteroids for improving symptoms in children with acute middle ear infection

Visit

Ranakusuma RW, Pitoyo Y, Safitri ED, Thorning S, Beller EM, Sastroasmoro S, Del Mar CB

Ranakusuma RW, Pitoyo Y, Safitri ED, Thorning S, Beller EM, Sastroasmoro S, D...

Objective: To assess the effects of systemic corticosteroids (oral or parenteral), with or without antibiotics, for AOM in children.

Cochrane Summary: Influenza vaccine for preventing acute otitis media (middle ear infection)  (2017)

Cochrane Summary: Influenza vaccine for preventing acute otitis media (middle ear infection)

Visit

Norhayati MN, Ho JJ, Azman MY

Norhayati MN, Ho JJ, Azman MY

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of influenza vaccine in reducing the occurrence of acute otitis media in infants and children.

Cochrane Summary: Pain relievers for children with acute middle ear infection  (2016)

Cochrane Summary: Pain relievers for children with acute middle ear infection

Visit

Sjoukes A, Venekamp RP, van de Pol AC, Hay AD, Little P, Schilder AG, Damoiseaux RA

Sjoukes A, Venekamp RP, van de Pol AC, Hay AD, Little P, Schilder AG, Damoise...

Objective: Our primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of paracetamol (acetaminophen) or NSAIDs, alone or combined, compared with placebo or no treatment in relieving pain in children with AOM. Our secondary objective was to assess the effectiveness of NSAIDs compared with paracetamol in children with AOM.

Cochrane Summary: Antibiotics for otitis media with effusion ('glue ear') in children  (2016)

Cochrane Summary: Antibiotics for otitis media with effusion ('glue ear') in children

Visit

Venekamp RP, Burton MJ, van Dongen TM, van der Heijden GJ, van Zon A, Schilder AG

Venekamp RP, Burton MJ, van Dongen TM, van der Heijden GJ, van Zon A, Schilde...

Objective: To assess the benefits and harms of oral antibiotics in children up to 18 years with OME.

Cochrane Summary: Systemic corticosteroids for improving symptoms in children with acute middle ear infection  (2018)

Cochrane Summary: Systemic corticosteroids for improving symptoms in children with acute middle ear infection

Visit

Ranakusuma RW, Pitoyo Y, Safitri ED, Thorning S, Beller EM, Sastroasmoro S, Del Mar CB

Ranakusuma RW, Pitoyo Y, Safitri ED, Thorning S, Beller EM, Sastroasmoro S, D...

Objective: To assess the effects of systemic corticosteroids (oral or parenteral), with or without antibiotics, for AOM in children.

Cochrane Summary: Influenza vaccine for preventing acute otitis media (middle ear infection)  (2017)

Cochrane Summary: Influenza vaccine for preventing acute otitis media (middle ear infection)

Visit

Norhayati MN, Ho JJ, Azman MY

Norhayati MN, Ho JJ, Azman MY

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of influenza vaccine in reducing the occurrence of acute otitis media in infants and children.

Cochrane Summary: Pain relievers for children with acute middle ear infection  (2016)

Cochrane Summary: Pain relievers for children with acute middle ear infection

Visit

Sjoukes A, Venekamp RP, van de Pol AC, Hay AD, Little P, Schilder AG, Damoiseaux RA

Sjoukes A, Venekamp RP, van de Pol AC, Hay AD, Little P, Schilder AG, Damoise...

Objective: Our primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of paracetamol (acetaminophen) or NSAIDs, alone or combined, compared with placebo or no treatment in relieving pain in children with AOM. Our secondary objective was to assess the effectiveness of NSAIDs compared with paracetamol in children with AOM.

Cochrane Summary: Antibiotics for otitis media with effusion ('glue ear') in children  (2016)

Cochrane Summary: Antibiotics for otitis media with effusion ('glue ear') in children

Visit

Venekamp RP, Burton MJ, van Dongen TM, van der Heijden GJ, van Zon A, Schilder AG

Venekamp RP, Burton MJ, van Dongen TM, van der Heijden GJ, van Zon A, Schilde...

Objective: To assess the benefits and harms of oral antibiotics in children up to 18 years with OME.

Overviews of systematic reviews 

Evidence Summary: Are topical antibiotics an alternative to oral antibiotics for children with acute otitis media and ear discharge?  (2016)

Evidence Summary: Are topical antibiotics an alternative to oral antibiotics for children with acute otitis media and ear discharge?

Visit

Venekamp RP, Prasad V, Hay AD

Venekamp RP, Prasad V, Hay AD

Objective: To review the evidence comparing efectiveness of topical antibiotics with oral antibiotics, placebo, or no treatment in children with AOM presenting with ear discharge caused by spontaneous perforation of the eardrum.

Evidence Summary: Are topical antibiotics an alternative to oral antibiotics for children with acute otitis media and ear discharge?  (2016)

Evidence Summary: Are topical antibiotics an alternative to oral antibiotics for children with acute otitis media and ear discharge?

Visit

Venekamp RP, Prasad V, Hay AD

Venekamp RP, Prasad V, Hay AD

Objective: To review the evidence comparing efectiveness of topical antibiotics with oral antibiotics, placebo, or no treatment in children with AOM presenting with ear discharge caused by spontaneous perforation of the eardrum.

Systematic reviews 

Cochrane Review: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines for preventing acute otitis media in children  (2020)

Cochrane Review: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines for preventing acute otitis media in children

Download

de Svaux JLH, Venekamp RP, Lutje V, Hak E, Schilder AGM, Sanders EAM, Damoiseaux RAMJ de

de Svaux JLH, Venekamp RP, Lutje V, Hak E, Schilder AGM, Sanders EAM, Damoise...

Objective: To assess the effect of PCVs in preventing AOM in children up to 12 years of age.

Systematic Review: Clinical practice guidelines for acute otitis media in children: a systematic review and appraisal of European national guidelines  (2020)

Systematic Review: Clinical practice guidelines for acute otitis media in children: a systematic review and appraisal of European national guidelines

Download

Suzuki, H.G. et al.

Suzuki, H.G. et al.

Objective: To appraise European guidelines for acute otitis media (AOM) in children, including methodological quality, level of evidence (LoE), astrength of recommendations (SoR), and consideration of antibiotic stewardship

Systematic Review: A systematic review and meta-analysis of antimicrobial resistance in paediatric acute otitis media  (2019)

Systematic Review: A systematic review and meta-analysis of antimicrobial resistance in paediatric acute otitis media

Visit

Michael W. Mathera, Michael Drinnana, John D. Perryc, Steven Powellb, Janet A. Wilsonb, Jason Powella

Michael W. Mathera, Michael Drinnana, John D. Perryc, Steven Powellb, Janet A...

Objective: We present a comprehensive review and meta-analysis, of both the microbiology and antimicrobial resistance of AOM organisms to commonly used antimicrobial agents, with the aim of informing responsible antimicrobial stewardship.

Cochrane Review: Probiotics for preventing acute otitis media in children  (2019)

Cochrane Review: Probiotics for preventing acute otitis media in children

Download

Scott AM, Clark J, Julien B, Islam F, Roos K, Grimwood K, Little P, Del Mar CB

Scott AM, Clark J, Julien B, Islam F, Roos K, Grimwood K, Little P, Del Mar CB

Objective: To assess the effects of probiotics to prevent the occurrence and reduce the severity of acute otitis media in children.

Review: From paper to practice: Strategies for improving antibiotic stewardship in the pediatric ambulatory setting.  (2018)

Review: From paper to practice: Strategies for improving antibiotic stewardship in the pediatric ambulatory setting.

Visit

Bozzella MJ, Harik N, Newland JG, Hamdy RF

Bozzella MJ, Harik N, Newland JG, Hamdy RF

Objective: The intent with this review is to provide an overview of strategies that pediatric providers can take from paper to practice.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Systemic corticosteroids for acute otitis media in children  (2018)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Systemic corticosteroids for acute otitis media in children

Visit

Ranakusuma RW, Pitoyo Y, Safitri ED, Thorning S, Beller EM, Sastroasmoro S, Del Mar CB

Ranakusuma RW, Pitoyo Y, Safitri ED, Thorning S, Beller EM, Sastroasmoro S, D...

Objective: To assess the effects of systemic corticosteroids (oral or parenteral), with or without antibiotics, for AOM in children.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Influenza vaccines for preventing acute otitis media in infants and children  (2017)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Influenza vaccines for preventing acute otitis media in infants and children

Visit

Norhayati MN, Ho JJ, Azman MY

Norhayati MN, Ho JJ, Azman MY

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of influenza vaccine in reducing the occurrence of acute otitis media in infants and children.

Review: Antibiotic therapy for children with acute otitis media  (2017)

Review: Antibiotic therapy for children with acute otitis media

Visit

Sakulchit T, Goldman RD

Sakulchit T, Goldman RD

Objective: Review of AOM and the evidence regarding use of antibiotics or watchful waiting to treat children at different levels of disease severity.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Paracetamol (acetaminophen) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alone or combined, for pain relief in acute otitis media in children  (2016)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Paracetamol (acetaminophen) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alone or combined, for pain relief in acute otitis media in children

Visit

Sjoukes A, Venekamp RP, van de Pol AC, Hay AD, Little P, Schilder AG, Damoiseaux RA

Sjoukes A, Venekamp RP, van de Pol AC, Hay AD, Little P, Schilder AG, Damoise...

Objective: Our primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of paracetamol (acetaminophen) or NSAIDs, alone or combined, compared with placebo or no treatment in relieving pain in children with AOM. Our secondary objective was to assess the effectiveness of NSAIDs compared with paracetamol in children with AOM.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Antibiotics for otitis media with effusion in children  (2016)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Antibiotics for otitis media with effusion in children

Visit

Venekamp RP, Burton MJ, van Dongen TM, van der Heijden GJ, van Zon A, Schilder AG

Venekamp RP, Burton MJ, van Dongen TM, van der Heijden GJ, van Zon A, Schilde...

Objective: To assess the benefits and harms of oral antibiotics in children up to 18 years with OME.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Antibiotics for acute otitis media in children  (2015)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Antibiotics for acute otitis media in children

Visit

Venekamp RP, Sanders SL, Glasziou PP, Del Mar CB, Rovers MM

Venekamp RP, Sanders SL, Glasziou PP, Del Mar CB, Rovers MM

Objective: To assess the effects of antibiotics for children with AOM.

Systematic Review: Effect of antibiotic prescribing in primary care on antimicrobial resistance in individual patients: systematic review and meta-analysis  (2010)

Systematic Review: Effect of antibiotic prescribing in primary care on antimicrobial resistance in individual patients: systematic review and meta-analysis

Visit

Costelloe C, Metcalfe C, Lovering A, Mant D, Hay AD

Costelloe C, Metcalfe C, Lovering A, Mant D, Hay AD

Objective: To systematically review the literature and, where appropriate, meta-analyse studies investigating subsequent antibiotic resistance in individuals prescribed antibiotics in primary care.

Cochrane Review: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines for preventing acute otitis media in children  (2020)

Cochrane Review: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines for preventing acute otitis media in children

Download

de Svaux JLH, Venekamp RP, Lutje V, Hak E, Schilder AGM, Sanders EAM, Damoiseaux RAMJ de

de Svaux JLH, Venekamp RP, Lutje V, Hak E, Schilder AGM, Sanders EAM, Damoise...

Objective: To assess the effect of PCVs in preventing AOM in children up to 12 years of age.

Systematic Review: Clinical practice guidelines for acute otitis media in children: a systematic review and appraisal of European national guidelines  (2020)

Systematic Review: Clinical practice guidelines for acute otitis media in children: a systematic review and appraisal of European national guidelines

Download

Suzuki, H.G. et al.

Suzuki, H.G. et al.

Objective: To appraise European guidelines for acute otitis media (AOM) in children, including methodological quality, level of evidence (LoE), astrength of recommendations (SoR), and consideration of antibiotic stewardship

Systematic Review: A systematic review and meta-analysis of antimicrobial resistance in paediatric acute otitis media  (2019)

Systematic Review: A systematic review and meta-analysis of antimicrobial resistance in paediatric acute otitis media

Visit

Michael W. Mathera, Michael Drinnana, John D. Perryc, Steven Powellb, Janet A. Wilsonb, Jason Powella

Michael W. Mathera, Michael Drinnana, John D. Perryc, Steven Powellb, Janet A...

Objective: We present a comprehensive review and meta-analysis, of both the microbiology and antimicrobial resistance of AOM organisms to commonly used antimicrobial agents, with the aim of informing responsible antimicrobial stewardship.

Cochrane Review: Probiotics for preventing acute otitis media in children  (2019)

Cochrane Review: Probiotics for preventing acute otitis media in children

Download

Scott AM, Clark J, Julien B, Islam F, Roos K, Grimwood K, Little P, Del Mar CB

Scott AM, Clark J, Julien B, Islam F, Roos K, Grimwood K, Little P, Del Mar CB

Objective: To assess the effects of probiotics to prevent the occurrence and reduce the severity of acute otitis media in children.

Review: From paper to practice: Strategies for improving antibiotic stewardship in the pediatric ambulatory setting.  (2018)

Review: From paper to practice: Strategies for improving antibiotic stewardship in the pediatric ambulatory setting.

Visit

Bozzella MJ, Harik N, Newland JG, Hamdy RF

Bozzella MJ, Harik N, Newland JG, Hamdy RF

Objective: The intent with this review is to provide an overview of strategies that pediatric providers can take from paper to practice.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Systemic corticosteroids for acute otitis media in children  (2018)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Systemic corticosteroids for acute otitis media in children

Visit

Ranakusuma RW, Pitoyo Y, Safitri ED, Thorning S, Beller EM, Sastroasmoro S, Del Mar CB

Ranakusuma RW, Pitoyo Y, Safitri ED, Thorning S, Beller EM, Sastroasmoro S, D...

Objective: To assess the effects of systemic corticosteroids (oral or parenteral), with or without antibiotics, for AOM in children.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Influenza vaccines for preventing acute otitis media in infants and children  (2017)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Influenza vaccines for preventing acute otitis media in infants and children

Visit

Norhayati MN, Ho JJ, Azman MY

Norhayati MN, Ho JJ, Azman MY

Objective: To assess the effectiveness of influenza vaccine in reducing the occurrence of acute otitis media in infants and children.

Review: Antibiotic therapy for children with acute otitis media  (2017)

Review: Antibiotic therapy for children with acute otitis media

Visit

Sakulchit T, Goldman RD

Sakulchit T, Goldman RD

Objective: Review of AOM and the evidence regarding use of antibiotics or watchful waiting to treat children at different levels of disease severity.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Paracetamol (acetaminophen) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alone or combined, for pain relief in acute otitis media in children  (2016)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Paracetamol (acetaminophen) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alone or combined, for pain relief in acute otitis media in children

Visit

Sjoukes A, Venekamp RP, van de Pol AC, Hay AD, Little P, Schilder AG, Damoiseaux RA

Sjoukes A, Venekamp RP, van de Pol AC, Hay AD, Little P, Schilder AG, Damoise...

Objective: Our primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of paracetamol (acetaminophen) or NSAIDs, alone or combined, compared with placebo or no treatment in relieving pain in children with AOM. Our secondary objective was to assess the effectiveness of NSAIDs compared with paracetamol in children with AOM.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Antibiotics for otitis media with effusion in children  (2016)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Antibiotics for otitis media with effusion in children

Visit

Venekamp RP, Burton MJ, van Dongen TM, van der Heijden GJ, van Zon A, Schilder AG

Venekamp RP, Burton MJ, van Dongen TM, van der Heijden GJ, van Zon A, Schilde...

Objective: To assess the benefits and harms of oral antibiotics in children up to 18 years with OME.

Cochrane Systematic Review: Antibiotics for acute otitis media in children  (2015)

Cochrane Systematic Review: Antibiotics for acute otitis media in children

Visit

Venekamp RP, Sanders SL, Glasziou PP, Del Mar CB, Rovers MM

Venekamp RP, Sanders SL, Glasziou PP, Del Mar CB, Rovers MM

Objective: To assess the effects of antibiotics for children with AOM.

Systematic Review: Effect of antibiotic prescribing in primary care on antimicrobial resistance in individual patients: systematic review and meta-analysis  (2010)

Systematic Review: Effect of antibiotic prescribing in primary care on antimicrobial resistance in individual patients: systematic review and meta-analysis

Visit

Costelloe C, Metcalfe C, Lovering A, Mant D, Hay AD

Costelloe C, Metcalfe C, Lovering A, Mant D, Hay AD

Objective: To systematically review the literature and, where appropriate, meta-analyse studies investigating subsequent antibiotic resistance in individuals prescribed antibiotics in primary care.

Key studies 

Key Study: Invasive bacterial Infections in afebrile infants diagnosed with acute otitis media  (2021)

Key Study: Invasive bacterial Infections in afebrile infants diagnosed with acute otitis media

Visit

Son H McLaren 1, Andrea T Cruz 2, Kenneth Yen, et al. Pediatrics

Son H McLaren 1, Andrea T Cruz 2, Kenneth Yen, et al. Pediatrics

Objective: to determine the prevalence of invasive bacterial infections (IBIs) and adverse events in afebrile infants with acute otitis media (AOM).

Key study: Acute otitis media in children presenting to the emergency department: Is it diagnosed and managed appropriately?  (2019)

Key study: Acute otitis media in children presenting to the emergency department: Is it diagnosed and managed appropriately?

Visit

Niroshan Balasundaram, Dung Phan, Daniel Mazzoni, Elliot Duong, Amy Sweeny, Chris Del Mar and Gerben Keijzers

Niroshan Balasundaram, Dung Phan, Daniel Mazzoni, Elliot Duong, Amy Sweeny, C...

Objective: To describe the diagnostic and management practice in children with acute otitis media (AOM) presenting to the emergency department (ED) and compare diagnosis and management against existing guidelines.

Key study: Diagnostic Accuracy, Prescription Behavior, and Watchful Waiting Efficacy for Pediatric Acute Otitis Media  (2019)

Key study: Diagnostic Accuracy, Prescription Behavior, and Watchful Waiting Efficacy for Pediatric Acute Otitis Media

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Brinker DL Jr, MacGeorge EL, Hackman N

Brinker DL Jr, MacGeorge EL, Hackman N

Objective: To assess the implications and recommendations to improve antibiotic stewardship through watchful waiting as an alternative to immediate antibiotic treatment in children with AOM.

Key Study: Anaesthetic-analgesic ear drops to reduce antibiotic consumption in children with acute otitis media: the CEDAR RCT  (2019)

Key Study: Anaesthetic-analgesic ear drops to reduce antibiotic consumption in children with acute otitis media: the CEDAR RCT

Download

Hay, A.D. et al.

Hay, A.D. et al.

Objective: The Childrens Ear Pain Study (CEDAR) investigated whether or not providing anaestheticanalgesic ear drops reduced antibiotic consumption in children with AOM. Secondary objectives included pain control and cost-effectiveness.

Key study: Optimising pain management in children with acute otitis media through a primary care-based multifaceted educational intervention: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial  (2018)

Key study: Optimising pain management in children with acute otitis media through a primary care-based multifaceted educational intervention: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial

Visit

van Uum RT, Venekamp RP, Sjoukes A, van de Pol AC, de Wit GA, Schilder AGM, Damoiseaux RAMJ,

van Uum RT, Venekamp RP, Sjoukes A, van de Pol AC, de Wit GA, Schilder AGM, D...

Objective: We have developed a primary care-based multifaceted educational intervention to optimise pain management in children with AOM, and we trial its clinical and cost effectiveness.

Key study: Shortened Antimicrobial Treatment for Acute Otitis Media in Young Children  (2016)

Key study: Shortened Antimicrobial Treatment for Acute Otitis Media in Young Children

Visit

Hoberman A, Paradise JL, Rockette HE, Kearney DH, Bhatnagar S, Shope TR, Martin JM, Kurs-Lasky M, Copelli SJ, Colborn DK, Block SL, Labella JJ, Lynch TG, Coh...

Hoberman A, Paradise JL, Rockette HE, Kearney DH, Bhatnagar S, Shope TR, Mart...

Objective: Given methodologic limitations in available publications, we undertook the current trial involving children 6 to 23 months of age to determine whether limiting antimicrobial treatment to 5 days rather than using the standard 10-day regimen would afford equivalent outcomes and whether doing so also for subsequent episodes would lead to a reduction in the overall use of antimicrobial treatment, with a resulting reduction in the development of antimicrobial resistance.

Key study: Use of symptoms and risk factors to predict acute otitis media in infants  (2016)

Key study: Use of symptoms and risk factors to predict acute otitis media in infants

Visit

McCormick DP, Jennings K, Ede LC, Alvarez-Fernandez P, Patel J, Chonmaitree T

McCormick DP, Jennings K, Ede LC, Alvarez-Fernandez P, Patel J, Chonmaitree T

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of symptoms and other risk factors in predicting the presence of AOM in infants.

Key study: Symptomatic and asymptomatic respiratory viral infections in the first year of life: association with acute otitis media development  (2015)

Key study: Symptomatic and asymptomatic respiratory viral infections in the first year of life: association with acute otitis media development

Visit

Chonmaitree T, Alvarez-Fernandez P, Jennings K, Trujillo R, Marom T, Loeffelholz MJ, Miller AL, McCormick DP, Patel JA, Pyles RB

Chonmaitree T, Alvarez-Fernandez P, Jennings K, Trujillo R, Marom T, Loeffelh...

Objective: This study determined the epidemiologic characteristics and etiology of asymptomatic upper respiratory tract infection in the first year of life and the association with acute otitis media complication.

Key study: Treatment of acute otitis media in children under 2 years of age  (2011)

Key study: Treatment of acute otitis media in children under 2 years of age

Visit

Hoberman A, Paradise JL, Rockette HE, Shaikh N, Wald ER, Kearney DH, Colborn DK, Kurs-Lasky M, Bhatnagar S, Haralam MA, Zoffel LM, Jenkins C, Pope MA, Balent...

Hoberman A, Paradise JL, Rockette HE, Shaikh N, Wald ER, Kearney DH, Colborn ...

Objective: We undertook this clinical trial to determine the extent to which antimicrobial treatment affects the course of both symptoms and signs of acute otitis media, irrespective of the apparent severity of the disease, among children 6 to 23 months of age in whom the diagnosis of acute otitis media is quite certain.

Key study: A placebo-controlled trial of antimicrobial treatment for acute otitis media  (2011)

Key study: A placebo-controlled trial of antimicrobial treatment for acute otitis media

Visit

Thtinen PA, Laine MK, Huovinen P, Jalava J, Ruuskanen O, Ruohola A

Thtinen PA, Laine MK, Huovinen P, Jalava J, Ruuskanen O, Ruohola A

Objective: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy in the age group with the highest incidence of acute otitis media. Our aim was to assess the efficacy of antimicrobial treatment for acute otitis media when strict diagnostic criteria are used and the antimicrobial coverage and dosage of the active treatment are adequate.

Key Study: Invasive bacterial Infections in afebrile infants diagnosed with acute otitis media  (2021)

Key Study: Invasive bacterial Infections in afebrile infants diagnosed with acute otitis media

Visit

Son H McLaren 1, Andrea T Cruz 2, Kenneth Yen, et al. Pediatrics

Son H McLaren 1, Andrea T Cruz 2, Kenneth Yen, et al. Pediatrics

Objective: to determine the prevalence of invasive bacterial infections (IBIs) and adverse events in afebrile infants with acute otitis media (AOM).

Key study: Acute otitis media in children presenting to the emergency department: Is it diagnosed and managed appropriately?  (2019)

Key study: Acute otitis media in children presenting to the emergency department: Is it diagnosed and managed appropriately?

Visit

Niroshan Balasundaram, Dung Phan, Daniel Mazzoni, Elliot Duong, Amy Sweeny, Chris Del Mar and Gerben Keijzers

Niroshan Balasundaram, Dung Phan, Daniel Mazzoni, Elliot Duong, Amy Sweeny, C...

Objective: To describe the diagnostic and management practice in children with acute otitis media (AOM) presenting to the emergency department (ED) and compare diagnosis and management against existing guidelines.

Key study: Diagnostic Accuracy, Prescription Behavior, and Watchful Waiting Efficacy for Pediatric Acute Otitis Media  (2019)

Key study: Diagnostic Accuracy, Prescription Behavior, and Watchful Waiting Efficacy for Pediatric Acute Otitis Media

Visit

Brinker DL Jr, MacGeorge EL, Hackman N

Brinker DL Jr, MacGeorge EL, Hackman N

Objective: To assess the implications and recommendations to improve antibiotic stewardship through watchful waiting as an alternative to immediate antibiotic treatment in children with AOM.

Key Study: Anaesthetic-analgesic ear drops to reduce antibiotic consumption in children with acute otitis media: the CEDAR RCT  (2019)

Key Study: Anaesthetic-analgesic ear drops to reduce antibiotic consumption in children with acute otitis media: the CEDAR RCT

Download

Hay, A.D. et al.

Hay, A.D. et al.

Objective: The Childrens Ear Pain Study (CEDAR) investigated whether or not providing anaestheticanalgesic ear drops reduced antibiotic consumption in children with AOM. Secondary objectives included pain control and cost-effectiveness.

Key study: Optimising pain management in children with acute otitis media through a primary care-based multifaceted educational intervention: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial  (2018)

Key study: Optimising pain management in children with acute otitis media through a primary care-based multifaceted educational intervention: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial

Visit

van Uum RT, Venekamp RP, Sjoukes A, van de Pol AC, de Wit GA, Schilder AGM, Damoiseaux RAMJ,

van Uum RT, Venekamp RP, Sjoukes A, van de Pol AC, de Wit GA, Schilder AGM, D...

Objective: We have developed a primary care-based multifaceted educational intervention to optimise pain management in children with AOM, and we trial its clinical and cost effectiveness.

Key study: Shortened Antimicrobial Treatment for Acute Otitis Media in Young Children  (2016)

Key study: Shortened Antimicrobial Treatment for Acute Otitis Media in Young Children

Visit

Hoberman A, Paradise JL, Rockette HE, Kearney DH, Bhatnagar S, Shope TR, Martin JM, Kurs-Lasky M, Copelli SJ, Colborn DK, Block SL, Labella JJ, Lynch TG, Coh...

Hoberman A, Paradise JL, Rockette HE, Kearney DH, Bhatnagar S, Shope TR, Mart...

Objective: Given methodologic limitations in available publications, we undertook the current trial involving children 6 to 23 months of age to determine whether limiting antimicrobial treatment to 5 days rather than using the standard 10-day regimen would afford equivalent outcomes and whether doing so also for subsequent episodes would lead to a reduction in the overall use of antimicrobial treatment, with a resulting reduction in the development of antimicrobial resistance.

Key study: Use of symptoms and risk factors to predict acute otitis media in infants  (2016)

Key study: Use of symptoms and risk factors to predict acute otitis media in infants

Visit

McCormick DP, Jennings K, Ede LC, Alvarez-Fernandez P, Patel J, Chonmaitree T

McCormick DP, Jennings K, Ede LC, Alvarez-Fernandez P, Patel J, Chonmaitree T

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of symptoms and other risk factors in predicting the presence of AOM in infants.

Key study: Symptomatic and asymptomatic respiratory viral infections in the first year of life: association with acute otitis media development  (2015)

Key study: Symptomatic and asymptomatic respiratory viral infections in the first year of life: association with acute otitis media development

Visit

Chonmaitree T, Alvarez-Fernandez P, Jennings K, Trujillo R, Marom T, Loeffelholz MJ, Miller AL, McCormick DP, Patel JA, Pyles RB

Chonmaitree T, Alvarez-Fernandez P, Jennings K, Trujillo R, Marom T, Loeffelh...

Objective: This study determined the epidemiologic characteristics and etiology of asymptomatic upper respiratory tract infection in the first year of life and the association with acute otitis media complication.

Key study: Treatment of acute otitis media in children under 2 years of age  (2011)

Key study: Treatment of acute otitis media in children under 2 years of age

Visit

Hoberman A, Paradise JL, Rockette HE, Shaikh N, Wald ER, Kearney DH, Colborn DK, Kurs-Lasky M, Bhatnagar S, Haralam MA, Zoffel LM, Jenkins C, Pope MA, Balent...

Hoberman A, Paradise JL, Rockette HE, Shaikh N, Wald ER, Kearney DH, Colborn ...

Objective: We undertook this clinical trial to determine the extent to which antimicrobial treatment affects the course of both symptoms and signs of acute otitis media, irrespective of the apparent severity of the disease, among children 6 to 23 months of age in whom the diagnosis of acute otitis media is quite certain.

Key study: A placebo-controlled trial of antimicrobial treatment for acute otitis media  (2011)

Key study: A placebo-controlled trial of antimicrobial treatment for acute otitis media

Visit

Thtinen PA, Laine MK, Huovinen P, Jalava J, Ruuskanen O, Ruohola A

Thtinen PA, Laine MK, Huovinen P, Jalava J, Ruuskanen O, Ruohola A

Objective: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy in the age group with the highest incidence of acute otitis media. Our aim was to assess the efficacy of antimicrobial treatment for acute otitis media when strict diagnostic criteria are used and the antimicrobial coverage and dosage of the active treatment are adequate.

Other 

Video: How to manage your childs ear infection  (2020)

Video: How to manage your childs ear infection

Visit

Acute otitis media (or middle ear infections) are infections caused by viruses or bacteria and are very common in children. This video provides useful information for parents and families about symptoms, how to manage symptoms, and when to seek care for a child who has an ear infection.

This video was created through a collaboration between ECHO Research (University of Alberta), TREKK, and ARCHE (University of Alberta). Funding was provided by the Networks of Centres of Excellence and the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation through the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute.

Does Your Child Have Ear Pain?  (2020)

Does Your Child Have Ear Pain?

Visit

Acute otitis media (or middle ear infections)  are infections caused by viruses or bacteria, and are very common in children. This infographic provides useful information for parents and families with a child who has an ear infection. Browse through to learn about common symptoms, how to manage symptoms, and when to seek care.

 

This infographic was created through a collaboration between ECHO Research (University of Alberta), TREKK, and ARCHE (University of Alberta). Funding was provided by the Networks of Centres of Excellence and the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation through the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute.

Video: How to manage your childs ear infection  (2020)

Video: How to manage your childs ear infection

Visit

Acute otitis media (or middle ear infections) are infections caused by viruses or bacteria and are very common in children. This video provides useful information for parents and families about symptoms, how to manage symptoms, and when to seek care for a child who has an ear infection.

This video was created through a collaboration between ECHO Research (University of Alberta), TREKK, and ARCHE (University of Alberta). Funding was provided by the Networks of Centres of Excellence and the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation through the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute.

Does Your Child Have Ear Pain?  (2020)

Does Your Child Have Ear Pain?

Visit

Acute otitis media (or middle ear infections)  are infections caused by viruses or bacteria, and are very common in children. This infographic provides useful information for parents and families with a child who has an ear infection. Browse through to learn about common symptoms, how to manage symptoms, and when to seek care.

 

This infographic was created through a collaboration between ECHO Research (University of Alberta), TREKK, and ARCHE (University of Alberta). Funding was provided by the Networks of Centres of Excellence and the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation through the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute.


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