PREVIOUSLY we reported a case of otitis media diagnosed otoscopically in a premature infant.1 Pathologic studies show this disease to be prevalent among small severely ill premature infants (19 of 28 babies in one study had otitis media,2 and 11 of 19 babies in another [Warren W. Johnson, MD, written communication, June 26, 1962]). We now present a second case diagnosed clinically using the electric otoscope to reemphasize the seriousness of the disorder, and to illustrate what the physician may expect in this condition.
Report of a Case
Clinical Course.—The patient, a 1,270-gm (2 lb 13 ounces) Negro boy, was born in the hospital and brought to the nursery in apparently fair condition. However, expiratory grunts were noted, and fine crackling rales were heard over the hemithorax on the left. Oxygen was briefly administered because of short periods of apnea and cyanosis. Both eyes showed purulent drainage, but no special