What role for antibiotics in otitis media and sinusitis?

PREVIEW

Patients often expect to be given antibiotics for any illness affecting the ears and sinuses, regardless of whether such treatment is warranted. Consequently, bacterial resistance to these agents is rising, making antibiotic choice a moving target. What types of otitis media and sinusitis should be treated with antibiotics, and which agents are currently the most effective for each condition? Drs Ahuja and Thompson discuss the established classification and treatment guidelines for these conditions and shed light on the dilemma regarding when and when not to treat.