Medical Health Encyclopedia

Otitis


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Ear anatomy
Ear anatomy
Medical findings based on ear anatomy
Medical findings based on ear anatomy
Middle ear infection (otitis media)
Middle ear infection (otitis media)
Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Definition

Otitis is a general term for infection or inflammation of the ear.


Alternative Names

Ear infection; Infection - ear


Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Otitis can affect the inner or outer parts of the ear. The condition is classified according to whether it occurs suddenly and for a short time (acute) or repeatedly over a long period of time (chronic).

Specific types of ear infection include:



Review Date: 12/01/2008
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.




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