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Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Otitis Media in Children

• Published: February 2000
• Revised: January 2008
• Topic: Upper respiratory tract infections
• Scope: Prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up
• Abstract: AOM is the most frequently diagnosed bacterial infection in pediatric patients. This guideline outlines criteria to differentiate AOM from OME, myringitis, and chronic supportive otitis media. The guideline also provides treatment, follow-up and referral recommendations.
• Target Population: Children with inflammation and pus in the middle ear accompanied by symptoms and signs of ear infection.
• Exclusions:
  • • Less than 6 weeks old
  • • Premature infants who are hospitalized
  • • Craniofacial abnormalities such as cleft palate
  • • Immunocompromised or severe underlying systemic disease
  • • Complications of AOM (e.g., sepsis, mastoiditis)
• Working Group Membership: Family physicians, infectious disease specialists, pediatricians, microbiologist, hospital and community pharmacists, epidemiologist, consumers, Alberta Health and Wellness representatives