[Pathological changes in the middle ear and delayed speech development. Preventable sequelae of disordered tube function and seromucotympanum].

Serous otitis media is a frequent disorder, as 80-90% of children up to the age of 8 years experience at least one episode of middle ear effusion. When deciding on a therapeutic strategy, it should be taken into consideration that there is a spontaneous recovery rate of about 95%. Initially, conservative treatment should be given (Valsalva maneuver), as the efficacy of drug therapy is questionable. In our opinion, in cases of persistent middle ear effusion an adenoidectomy plus myringotomy should be performed. In cases of recurrence, a ventilation tube should be inserted to reduce eardrum pathology as well as delayed speech and mental development.