To review various aspects of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM).
DATA SOURCES:
A MEDLINE search and extensive review of articles provided the information for this review.
DATA EXTRACTION:
Studies describing the epidemiology, microbiology, risk factors, pathology, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and recurrence of CSOM were included.
DATA SYNTHESIS:
Pseudomonas aeruginosa and anaerobes are the most predominant bacteria found in CSOM. Treatment with otic, oral, or parenteral drugs (e.g., neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone otic, ciprofloxacin, ceftazidime, or aminoglycosides) should be guided by ear fluid culture results. Prompt treatment with effective and safe antibiotics may prevent complications of CSOM.
CONCLUSIONS:
Treatment of CSOM has improved as a result of availability of effective otic and oral antibiotics. Treatment of the anaerobic infection with antibiotics should be studied further.
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