Otitis media: the pathogenesis approach. Assessment and treatment of associated upper respiratory tract pathology.

The communication of the middle ear with the nasopharynx via the Eustachian tube makes it susceptible to disease processes of the upper airway. It is therefore necessary for patients with otitis media to have a thorough evaluation of the upper airway for detection and management of any concurrent pathologic condition. This article reviews the various upper respiratory tract pathologic entities associated with otitis media.