TABLE 4
Recommendations for Initial Management for Uncomplicated AOM1
| Age | Otorrhea With AOMa | Unilateral or Bilateral AOM With Severe Symptoms | Bilateral AOM Without Otorrhea | Unilateral AOM Without Otorrhea |
| 6 mo to 2 y | Antibiotic therapy | Antibiotic therapy | Antibiotic therapy | Antibiotic therapy or additional observation |
| ≥2 y | Antibiotic therapy | Antibiotic therapy | Antibiotic therapy or additional observation | Antibiotic therapy or additional observation |
Note: Criteria for a short course (5–7 days) of antibiotics for AOM includes patients ≥2 years of age with mild or moderate AOM, ear pain <48 hours, and fever <39C (102.2F).
1Lieberthal AS, Carroll AE, Chonmaitree T, et al. AAP Clinical Practice Guideline: the diagnosis and management of acute otitis media. Pediatrics. 2013;131(3):e964-e999