From the Research
Definition and Overview
- Conjunctivitis-otitis syndrome refers to the concurrent occurrence of conjunctivitis and otitis media, often caused by the same bacterial pathogen 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- This syndrome is commonly observed in children, with Haemophilus influenzae being the most prevalent causative organism 1, 2, 4, 5.
Causative Pathogens
- Haemophilus influenzae is the most common pathogen associated with conjunctivitis-otitis syndrome, accounting for 70-90% of cases 1, 2, 4, 5.
- Other pathogens, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Moraxella catarrhalis, may also be involved, although to a lesser extent 1, 2, 5.
Clinical Characteristics
- The syndrome often presents with symptoms of conjunctivitis, such as purulent discharge, and otitis media, such as ear pain and fever 3, 4, 5.
- The concurrent occurrence of conjunctivitis and otitis media may guide the choice of empiric antibiotics, with a focus on covering Haemophilus influenzae 1, 2, 4, 5.
Treatment and Prevention
- Optimal treatment of acute conjunctivitis may prevent the development of otitis media, with oral antibiotics effective against Haemophilus influenzae being the most effective approach 4.
- Topical antimicrobials may also be used to treat conjunctivitis, but their effectiveness in preventing otitis media is limited 4.