Chronic Otitis Media (COM) | Types | Symptoms | Treatment | Dr. Vivek Sasindran | English скачать в хорошем качестве

Chronic Otitis Media (COM) | Types | Symptoms | Treatment | Dr. Vivek Sasindran | English

Dr. Vivek Sasindran, Consultant ENT, Head and Neck Surgeon Chronic Otitis Media (COM), is a prevalent cause of ear discharge and can be categorized into two types: Mucosal and Squamosal. Mucosal Chronic Otitis Media refers to a perforation or hole in the eardrum, scientifically known as the tympanic membrane. This perforation leads to frequent ear discharges and a subsequent loss of hearing, making it the most commonly observed clinical manifestation. On the other hand, Squamosal Chronic Otitis Media presents as a more aggressive variant of the condition. It is associated with a specific complication called Cholesteatoma, which possesses the unique ability to damage bones. Patients with Cholesteatoma may experience a foul smell emanating from the ear, particularly when using earbuds. In advanced stages, as the bones begin to decay, patients may also notice a gradual deterioration in their hearing ability. Mucosal COM typically manifests earlier and results in slightly greater ear discharge, prompting patients to seek medical attention sooner. Unfortunately, individuals often overlook the Squamosal variant, which can lead to more severe damage in the future. Today, our discussion will revolve around the Mucosal variant of COM, also known as simple eardrum perforation, and its corresponding treatment options. During an active ear discharge, the primary course of action involves medical management. This typically entails antibiotic therapy, ear suction, and regular cleaning. In some cases, the discharge is sent for testing to identify the specific bacteria involved, allowing for targeted antibiotic treatment. Once the ear is dry, a reassessment is conducted. It is common for patients to report a history of this issue since childhood, experiencing intermittent exacerbations. The discharge tends to worsen when they immerse themselves in water or during episodes of fever or cold. This intermittent nature of the discharge is a characteristic feature of the condition. However, as time progresses, patients may also begin to experience hearing loss. During active episodes of ear discharge, treatment options include eardrops or antibiotics. However, these measures only provide temporary relief. When hearing loss is present or when the discharge persists for an extended period, typically three months or more, a diagnosis of COM is established. In such cases, surgical intervention becomes the preferred treatment approach.