Chronic suppurative otitis media

Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) is a persistent infection that results in a perforated tympanic membrane with persistent drainage from the middle ear. It is a common condition worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity, particularly in low-income settings.

Etiology

CSOM is typically caused by multiple types of bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and various types of Streptococcus. The condition often begins with an acute otitis media (AOM) that fails to resolve, leading to the development of a tympanic membrane perforation and chronic drainage.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of CSOM is persistent or recurrent otorrhea, or drainage from the ear. This may be associated with hearing loss, tinnitus, and sometimes pain. In severe cases, it can lead to serious complications such as mastoiditis, meningitis, brain abscess, and hearing loss.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of CSOM is typically based on the clinical presentation of persistent or recurrent otorrhea with a tympanic membrane perforation. Audiometry may be used to assess the extent of hearing loss. In some cases, CT scans may be used to evaluate for complications or prior to surgical intervention.

Treatment

Treatment of CSOM typically involves a combination of antibiotics, either topical or systemic, and surgical intervention. The goal of treatment is to control the infection, close the tympanic membrane perforation, and improve hearing.

Epidemiology

CSOM is a common condition worldwide, with a higher prevalence in low-income settings. It is particularly common in populations with limited access to healthcare, poor living conditions, and high rates of upper respiratory tract infections.

See Also

• Otitis media
• Tympanic membrane perforation
• Mastoiditis
• Hearing loss