Suppurative Complications of Acute Otitis Media in the Era of Antibiotic Resistance

Abstract
THE INCIDENCE of suppurative complications of acute otitis media (AOM) has declined dramatically in the postantibiotic era. Antibiotic therapy has not only decreased morbidity and mortality, but has concomitantly decreased the need for mastoid surgery.1 The emergence of antibiotic-resistant middle ear microorganisms, however, has prompted a reevaluation of the approach to both uncomplicated otitis media and its suppurative sequelae.2,3