[ENT antibiotic therapy: therapeutic guidelines. Part I].

We discuss the variety of ear, nose and throat infections and then define the criteria for the choice of an adequate antibiotic. The importance of "supercalculated" therapy based on the results of Gram's stain is stressed, as it can save patients from over-treatment and adverse side-effects. Indications for Gram's stain in ENT as well as the value of the characteristics of the pus produced by different pathogens are described. The severity of the infection determines the choice between parenteral or oral therapy. The importance of the decision taken on the 1st and 3rd day of a severe infection is emphasised. Therapeutic principles in ENT infections are shown by grouping different infections with a similar spectrum of pathogens; also the indications for antibiotic therapy are outlined. Finally the priority of antibiotic treatment in some surgical infections is mentioned, and the peri-operative prophylaxis and treatment are described as well as the guidelines for treatment of infectious post-operative complications.