ear, nose, and throat disorders
Otitis Media (Chronic Suppurative)
Key Points
Chronic suppurative otitis media is a persistent perforation of the tympanic membrane with chronic suppurative drainage. The middle ear structures are often damaged; less commonly, intratemporal or intracranial structures are affected. Initially, treat with topical antibiotics. If patients have severe exacerbations, treat with systemic antibiotics. Surgery is needed for certain types of perforation and damaged ossicles and to remove any cholesteatomas. 