Complications of otitis media: an evolving state.

The advent of antibiotics in the 1930s and 1940s has led to a decline in the incidence of otitis media complications. However, otitis media and its complications are continuing to evolve owing to the emergence of antibiotic resistance and the introduction of pneumococcal vaccines. Modern high-resolution computed tomographic scans have allowed for earlier diagnosis when signs and symptoms are present, but a high index of suspicion must be maintained because the clinical presentation may be quite subtle. The intent of this article is to discuss the intracranial and extracranial complications of acute and chronic otitis media. The clinical presentation, work-up, and management of the individual complications are presented.