Microbiological correlation between adenoid and glue ear cultures in patients with OME

Abstract

Introduction: Otitis Media with Effusion is still the most prevalent otological pathology in preschool children in Chile. Its etiology and predisposing factors are not entirely clear yet. Hence, its treatment is controversial. Aim: To demonstrate a microbiological correlation in adenoid tissue and glue ear cultures in both ears in patients with OME. Material and method: Prospective case control study, which analyzed bacterial adenoid tissue cultures and glue ear cultures in both ears in 40 patients with OME, and a second control group of bacterial cultures in 40 patients with adenoid hyperplasia without ear effusion. Results: Cases: Five negatives in adenoid cultures (12.5%), 28 positive to guest bac­teria (70%) and 7 positive at unusual germs (17.5%). The glue ear presented negative culture at 72.5% in the right ear and 77.5% in the left ear. Adenoid control cultures did not differ with OME studied cases. Discussion: A microbiological glue ear and adenoid correlation could not be established. Conclusions: The number of negative glue ear cultures is similar to published literature. There is not a pattern which allows a positive correlation between adenoid cases cultures and glue ear cultures or with control adenoid cultures.