Question

Bullous myringitis (an inflammation of the tympanic membrane) is often associated with which infection?

1) Bacterial infection
2) Viral infection
3) Fungal infection
4) Parasitic infection

Answer 1

Bullous myringitis is often associated with a bacterial infection, typically as part of acute otitis media, where bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae infect the middle ear.

Step-by-step explanation:

Bullous myringitis, which is an inflammation of the tympanic membrane, is often associated with a bacterial infection. This condition is characterized by the presence of blisters on the tympanic membrane and can lead to severe ear pain (otalgia). The condition can occur as part of acute otitis media (AOM), where the infection leads to the accumulation of pus in the middle ear due to inability to drain, subsequently resulting in increased pressure and bulging of the tympanic membrane. In the case of AOM, the infection is primarily caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae. These pathogens can travel from the respiratory tract to the ear via the eustachian tube, leading to an infection.