[Diagnosis of otitis media with effusion by acoustic reflectometry].

OBJECTIVE

Acoustic reflectometry is a new technique based on a sonar that enables the diagnosis of middle ear effusion. Our objective was to assess its value and to know the cut-off figure for pathology.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In 586 children, from 1 month to 14 years of age, we performed bilateral otoscopy looking for signs of middle ear effusion. Afterwards, 3 measurements with the acoustic otoscope (ENT, Inc.) were taken and the results between the two methods compared.

RESULTS

There was a significant association (p < 0.0001, Chi-squared) between results > 4 and middle ear effusion with a sensitivity of 84.2% and a specificity of 98.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Acoustic reflectometry has shown to be a very quick (< 10 seconds/ear), accurate and objective technique. It is painless and easy. It can be made in any child, without collaboration (crying or moving) and at any age.