[Chronic otitis media in children].

Otitis media with effusion is the main chronic otitis in children. It is very common under 5 years of age. It is often asymptomatic or is revealed by a hearing loss, delaying language development or causing behaviour troubles or balance troubles. Repeated acute otitis media may also occur. Tympanic membrane aspect is variable: pneumotoscopy and tympanometry are valuable diagnostic tools. Long term consequences on child development and possible scarring of the eardrum and the ossicles must be kept in mind. Treatment consists in watchful waiting during 3 months, then adenoidectomy and middle ear drainage. There is no efficient drug. Other chronic middle ear infections may cause serious hearing and infectious complications and require surgical treatment.