Low dose macrolide administration for long term is effective for otitis media with effusion in children

Auris Nasus Larynx. 2013 Feb;40(1):46-50. doi: 10.1016/j.anl.2012.05.008. Epub 2012 Jun 4.

Abstract

Objective: To explore the clinical effect and possible mechanism of macrolides on otitis media with effusion in children.

Methods: Children with otitis media with effusion were recruited and prescribed for macrolides according to a designed scheme, and followed up for 8-12 weeks. Middle ear effusion samples were collected from the participants to assess the presence of biofilm.

Results: Macrolides were found to have significant effect on the therapy of early stage otitis media with effusion for 88.7-92.5% of participants compared with 50.9-60.3% in control group after 8-12 weeks. Almost 72.1% of chronic otitis media with effusion patients recovered after an 8 weeks' course low dose macrolides prescription. Biofilm occurred in 30.8% (4/13) of middle ear effusion.

Conclusions: The results indicate that macrolides are effective for otitis media with effusion in children. Bacterial biofilm may play an important role in the pathogenesis of otitis media with effusion.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acoustic Impedance Tests
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Biofilms
  • Bone Conduction
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Clarithromycin / administration & dosage*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Otitis Media with Effusion / drug therapy*
  • Prospective Studies

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Clarithromycin