Risk factors for otitis media with effusion in children 0 to 2 years of age.

PURPOSE

To determine the possible risk factors associated with the occurrence of otitis media with effusion.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two hundred eighty-nine children born between July 1987 and October 1988 were studied up to the age of 24 months. The enrollment of the children took place during their regular check-up visits at three different health-care centers.

RESULTS

Having older sibling was the most important risk factor, for both the time elapsed until the first occurrence and for the probability of otitis media with effusion at each visit. Other significant risk factors for the probability at each visit were: having had acute otitis media before the visit or before the previous visit, age, a positive family history of otitis media, and upper respiratory tract infections (URTI).

CONCLUSION

Having older siblings is the most important risk factor for otitis media with effusion in this age group.