Context
Acute otitis media (AOM) is one of the most common problems in pediatrics.
An accurate diagnosis of AOM can guide proper treatment and follow-up.
Objective
To systematically review the literature regarding precision and accuracy
of history taking and physical examination in diagnosing AOM in children.
Data Sources
We searched MEDLINE for English-language articles published from 1966
through May 2002. Bibliographies of retrieved articles and textbooks were
also searched.
Study Selection
We located studies with original data on the precision or accuracy of
history or physical examination for AOM in children. Of 397 references initially
identified, 6 met inclusion criteria for analysis.
Data Extraction
Two authors independently reviewed and abstracted data to calculate
likelihood ratios (LRs) for symptoms and signs.
Data Synthesis
Four studies of symptoms used clinical diagnosis as the criterion standard
and were limited by incorporation bias. Ear pain is the most useful symptom
(positive LRs, 3.0-7.3); fever, upper respiratory tract symptoms, and irritability
are less useful. One study of clinical signs used tympanocentesis as the criterion
standard, and we adjusted the results to correct for verification bias. A
cloudy (adjusted LR, 34; 95% confidence interval [CI], 28-42), bulging (adjusted
LR, 51; 95% CI, 36-73), or distinctly immobile (adjusted LR, 31; 95% CI, 26-37)
tympanic membrane on pneumatic otoscopy are the most useful signs for detecting
AOM. A distinctly red tympanic membrane is also helpful (adjusted LR, 8.4;
95% CI, 6.7-11) whereas a normal color makes AOM much less likely (adjusted
LR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.19-0.21).
Conclusions
Although many of the studies included in this analysis are limited by
bias, a cloudy, bulging, or clearly immobile tympanic membrane is most helpful
for detecting AOM. The degree of erythema may also be useful since a normal
color makes otitis media unlikely whereas a distinctly red tympanic membrane
increases the likelihood significantly.