OME

(Otitis Media with effusion)

Q1. Define OME
Answer1: This is a clinical condition characterized by the presence of sterile fluid in the
middle ear cavity.

Q2. Etiology of OME

Answer2:
 Malfunction of the Eustachian tube
o Adenoids and other accumulation of hypertrophied lymphoid
tissues in and around the pharyngeal opening.
 Increased Secretory activity of the middle ear cleft mucosa
 Unresolved acute otitis media
 Viral infection
Q3. Investigations for OME
Answer3:
1. X-ray Nasopharynx
2. Hearing test
a. Tuning Fork test
i. Shows Conductive type of deafness.
Q4.Treatment of OME
a. Conservative
i. Elimination of etiological and predisposing factors
ii. Decongestants
iii. Anti Allergic Measures; Antihistamines
iv. Antibiotics
v. Middle Ear aeration; Valsalva Maneuver
b. Surgical
i. Myringotomy under general anaesthesia
ii. Gromet insertion through the tympanic membrane, to provide
continued aeration of the middle ear cavity.