Otitis media therapy and drug resistance part 2: Current concepts and new directions

Acute otitis media (AOM) is the most common illness that requires a visit to a physician in the developed world, and the number of cases has increased substantially in the past 2 decades. This same period has been marked by a significant increase in drug resistance among pathogens that cause AOM. We provide an evaluation of the agents used to control infections with these pathogens. Prophylactic modalities are also discussed. Advent of the Streptococcus pneumoniae polysaccharide conjugate vaccine, coupled with more judicious use of antibiotics, will improve management of AOM in the coming years.