Role of anaerobic bacteria in chronic otitis media and cholesteatoma.

Otitis media (OM), a common infection in children, can cause significant morbidity. Selection of the most appropriate treatment regimen directed against the pathogens responsible for the OM can minimize complications. The most frequently isolated bacteria from chronic OM are Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and anaerobic bacteria. The predominant anaerobes are Peptostreptococcus spp., pigmented Prevotella and Porphyromonas spp., Bacteroides spp. and Fusobacterium spp. Many of the organisms causing OM can produce beta-lactamase, which can contribute to the failure of penicillins therapy. The appropriate surgical and medical therapy for chronic OM is reviewed.