FACTORS INFLUENCING THE INCIDENCE AND COURSE OF OTITIS MEDIA IN SCARLET FEVER

Abstract

12% of all cases of scarlet fever have middle ear abscess between 14th and 21st day of disease; however, many epidemics have peaks between July and Nov. with a lowered incidence of otitis media. Other infections superimposed on scarlet fever increase incidence of otitis, e.g., coryza, measles, and especially diphtheria. Tonsillectomy after the 3d week of disease has a salutary influence on the course of suppurating ears as well as other complications. Paracentesis does not seem to influence either the course of otitis media or the incidence of mastoiditis. Suppurative mastoids, however, must be operated upon promptly. Early serum treatment and sulfanilamid probably benefit otitis media.