Tympanocentesis and treatment of in the diagnosis otitis media

Tympanocentesis is a procedure that can be used in the office by trained primary caregivers. It can provide benefit to patients by allowing for identification of the pathogens and their anti-microbial susceptibility, distinguishing between viral and bacterial infection, and draining the effusion or abscess. It is indicated in febrile children with a toxic appearance, those with ear pain and a bulging tympanic membrane, and those whose otitis has failed to respond to sequential antimicrobial therapy.