중이염 동물 모델에서 중이점막의 분비능에 대한 항생제 및 스테로이드 요법의 효과

Background and Objectives: The abnormal secretory capacity of the middle ear mucosa is known to promote the chronicity of otitis media. In this study we investigated the efficacy of a combination therapy of steroid and antibiotic in controlling secretion of the middle ear mucosa. Materials and Methods: Healthy New Zealand White rabbits were randomized into groups. Middle ear infection was induced by injecting a strain of pneu- moccoci through the tympanic membrane. Study groups were classified and treated with steroid only, antibiotic only, and combination regimen. After treatment, we analyzed the distribution of the inflammatory cells, goblet cell density and MUC5AC immunoreactivity. Results: The combination treatment group showed more decrease in goblet cell density compared to the antibiotic only group. Interestingly the steroid only group showed the most severe inflammation, however the secretory capacity was greatly reduced. Conclusion: Combination therapy could play a potential role in treatment of the acute otitis media by means of controlling increased secretory function of the mucosa. (J Clinical Otolaryngol 2007;18:33–40)