Otitis media is a general definition that covers many diseases of the middle ear, whether infective or non-infective, short-term or long-term.

What is middle ear infeciton (otitis media)?

The middle ear is the space between the inner surface of the eardrum and the bone capsule surrounding the inner ear, along with the structures located there. The middle ear contains the ear ossicles, the spongy mastoid space behind the ear, and the inner opening of the eustachian tube.

Otitis media is not a single disease; it can be categorized as follows:

  • Serous Otitis Media: This occurs when there is a collection of non-infected fluid in the ear.

  • Suppurative Otitis Media: This is characterized by the collection of infected fluid in the ear.

Additionally, otitis media can be defined by its duration:

  • Acute Otitis Media: Middle ear infections that last less than 3 months.

  • Chronic Otitis Media: Middle ear infections that persist for longer than 3 months.

Now, let's discuss these conditions in more detail, as they are commonly seen in clinical practice...