Q Diagnosis of acute middle ear infection
Diagnostic criteria for acute middle ear infection or otitis media include rapid onset of symptoms, middle ear effusion, and signs and symptoms of middle ear inflammation. Nonspecific symptoms of acute otitis media (e.g., fever, headache, irritability, cough, rhinitis, restlessness, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, pulling at the ears) are common in infants and young children. Otalgia or earache, ear rubbing or pulling, and parental suspicion of otitis media are moderately useful for ruling in the diagnosis. Detection of middle ear effusion by pneumatic otoscopy is key in establishing the diagnosis.