Otitis media with effusion
Otitis Media with Effusion
Otitis media with effusion (pronunciation: /oʊˌtaɪtɪs ˈmiːdiə wɪθ ɪˈfjuːʒən/), also known as glue ear or serous otitis media, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear without signs of acute infection.
Etymology
The term "otitis media with effusion" is derived from the Greek words "otitis" meaning inflammation of the ear, "media" meaning middle, and "effusion" referring to the escape of fluid into a part of the body.
Definition
Otitis media with effusion is a common condition, particularly in children, where fluid accumulates in the middle ear space, often following an acute ear infection. This fluid may remain for several weeks to months, causing hearing difficulties but typically no pain or fever.
Symptoms
Symptoms of otitis media with effusion include hearing loss, balance problems, and behavioral changes in children due to hearing difficulties. However, many cases are asymptomatic and are only discovered during routine hearing tests.
Causes
The exact cause of otitis media with effusion is unknown, but it is thought to be related to Eustachian tube dysfunction, which prevents the normal drainage of fluid from the middle ear.
Treatment
Treatment options for otitis media with effusion include watchful waiting, antibiotics, nasal steroids, and surgical interventions such as ear tube surgery.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Otitis media with effusion
- Wikipedia's article - Otitis media with effusion
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