Research
Eustachian Tube Development Study
Eustachian Tube Growth and Development: Anatomy/Function
Protocol Description
This study will measure Eustachian tube function and facial growth over time in groups of children with the two types of otitis media and with little past otitis media. These measures will be used to determine if facial growth is related to improved Eustachian tube function and to the resolution of otitis media. Additionally, findings will be used to see if the better function explains why young children “outgrow” otitis media as they get older, and to determine if these measures are different for the children in the three groups.
Eligibility Criteria
Children of both genders will be entered into the study at age 3 and assigned to one of the following groups: 1) those with many ear infections (recurrent acute otitis media), 2) those who have had long-term fluid in the ears without symptoms of infection (otitis media with effusion) and 3) children who have had very little middle-ear disease (control).
Boys: 3 years old
Girls: 3 years old
Requirements
Children enrolled in the study will have examinations done on a 6-month schedule until they are 7 years old. During examinations, a variety of tests will be performed to measure Eustachian tube function, and facial measurements will be recorded. At specific intervals, other specialized tests, such as cephalometric x-rays and magnetic resonance imaging, will be done.
Visits: 8
Duration: 4 years
Status: Open for Enrollment
Source of Support
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
National Institutes of Health
Additional Resources
Study description at National Institutes of Health
Primary Investigator(s)
Margaretha L. Casselbrant, MD, PhD
Contact Information
To get started, please contact:
Kathy Tekely, RN or Jim Seroky, MA
412-692-5463
