[Value of microscopic detection of acid fast rods in tuberculosis of the middle ear].

The microscopic identification of acid-proof rod-shaped bacilli via smear is of great importance for the diagnosis of tuberculous otitis media, since it is performed quickly and easily, for it enables an early diagnosis and treatment. The importance of the staining method using auramine is discussed, and it is examined if contamination by apathogenic or atypic mycobacteriae can yield a wrong positive result.