ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: The role of immunoglobin (Ig) E-mediated hypersensitivity in otitis media with effusion (OME) has been the subject of much controversy and personal bias. Uncontrolled studies report the incidence of respiratory allergy in children with OME to range from 4% to over 90%. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Children 1 to 18 years old who had OME requiring a myringotomy and tubes from January 1, 1987, through July 1, 1988, were the subjects of this study. The history of allergic and radioallergosorbent test (RAST) analysis of specific serum IgE levels was undertaken for 26 allergens on 89 children in the study group and 59 children in the control group. RESULT: The incidence of allergen as diagnosed by RAST score was higher in children with OME than children in the control group (P > .05). There was no correlation between positive RAST scores and the number of polyethylene-ventilating (PE) tubes previously placed, history of tonsillectomy, history of adenoidectomy, or the character of the effusion (mucous v serous). CONCLUSION: Respiratory allergy is a factor involved in the pathogenesis of OME.
