Bullous Myringitis

Bullous myringitis is painful inflammation of the tympanic membrane with the formation of bullae. Historically, it was thought that Mycoplasma pnumoniae was the most common pathogen. However, recent studies have demonstrated that the pathogens are similar to otitis media. Bacteria are responsible for most cases of bullous myringitis. Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common, followed by Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Antibiotic treatment follows that of otitis media. It is important to treat with adequate pain management, either topical or oral, as bullous myringitis is quite painful.

Resources:

Palmu, A., et al. Bacterial etiology of acute myringitis in children less than two years of age. Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal, 2001; 20: 607-11.

Tintinalli, J.E., et al. Emergency Medicine: A Comprehensive Study Guide. 6th Edition. The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. 2004.