Otitis media is a term used for which condition?

Otitis media specifically refers to an infection or inflammation of the middle ear. This condition is often characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear, which can lead to pain and other symptoms, such as fever and irritability, particularly in children. Understanding this definition is important for recognizing the clinical presentations associated with otitis media and for differentiating it from other ear-related conditions.

In contrast, ear pain is a symptom that can arise from various issues, including otitis media, but it does not define the condition itself. An external ear infection pertains to infections affecting the outer ear canal, distinct from the middle ear involvement seen in otitis media. Inflammation of the sweat glands is unrelated to ear conditions and pertains to dermatological issues. Thus, the most accurate description of otitis media is that it is a middle ear infection.