Supportive Agents for Pediatric Otolaryngological Infections

Abstract

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), otitis media, and tonsillopharyngitis are the most common pediatric otolaryngological infections during childhood. URTIs refer to any infectious diseases involving the nose, sinuses, pharynx, or larynx and they are usually caused by viral agents. Although these infections are mostly caused by viruses, diseases that last more than 7-10 days generally refer to secondary bacterial infections. Whether caused by viral or bacterial agents, pediatric otolaryngological infections constitute one of the most common reasons for doctor visits and cause considerable socioeconomic burden for the community.Supportive agents have been used for infections since ancient times and the popularity of their use is growing among the general population. Either natural or commercially available supportive agents attract attention for overcoming several diseases including pediatric otolaryngological infections. Although there are a large number of supportive agents utilized for infectious diseases worldwide, we aimed to focus on common agents that have been used for pediatric otolaryngological infections. Zinc and VitaminsZinc is an essential trace element with multiple functions related to immunity, growth and development of the human body. In addition, zinc was shown to have antiviral functions including inhibition of viral replication [1]. Kurugöz et al. [2]