Acute otitis media (AOM) is one of the most common childhood infections and an important reason for doctor consultations and antibiotic prescribing.1
Approximately 15%-20% of children with AOM present with ear discharge due to a spontaneous tear or perforation of the eardrum (AOMd). Contrary to popular beliefs, children with AOMd have similar levels of ear pain and are more unwell at presentation than those without ear discharge. These children also have a poorer prognosis with higher rates of ear...
