The genetics of otitis media

Abstract

There is significant evidence from epidemiologic, anatomic, physiologic, and immunologic studies that susceptibility to recurrent episodes of acute otitis media (OM) and persistent OM with effusion is largely genetically determined. The genetics of OM are most likely complex, i.e., many genes are probably contributing to the overall phenotype. The knowledge of a hereditary component has important implications because closer surveillance of children at risk for OM could result in earlier detection and treatment. Further, once OM susceptibility genes have been identified it may be possible to develop molecular diagnostic assays that could enable the clinician to identify the child at high risk for OM and to develop more focused treatments in the future.

Five-year prospective study of paediatric acute otitis media in Rochester, NY: modelling analysis of the risk of pneumococcal colonization in the nasopharynx and infection

“…In our model, children with a family history of OM had an increased risk of AOM (OR 1•59, P = 0•02). A similar result was observed in families in Greenland [29] and researchers have suggested a genetic link for OM risk [30]. In our study population we found that breastfeeding for 56 months did not diminish the risk for AOM more than breastfeeding for a shorter time.…”

Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of clinical isolates from cases of ear infection using amoxicillin and cefepime

“…Although AOM can occur at any age, it is most common in young children, particularly at the age of 6–24 months (Pukander et al 1982; Lundgren and Ingvarsson 1983; Teele et al 1989). A genetic component engrossed in the predisposition to middle ear infections (Casselbrant and Mandel 2001). …”

Craniofacial morphology and otitis media with effusion in children

“…The most common ethiologies of tubal dysfunction are functional problems [1] and its intrinsic system of opening and closing [5][6][7][8], immunological [9] and genetic disorders [10], gastroesophageal reflux [11] and rhinosinusitis [5,12]. Enlarged adenoid is another associated factor, once it obstructs the pharyngeal ostia of the auditory tube [12,13].…”