The researchers at the Rochester General Hospital (RGH) Research Institute, Center for Infectious Diseases and Immunology, are studying the different germs that cause ear infections, and are working on making better vaccines against the new kinds of germs that cause ear infections. They are also studying how the immune system works against ear infections, and why this does not work in some kids.
The study involves taking nasal wash samples on well visits, and at 2 points in the study a teaspoon of blood. If there is an ear infection, in addition to the samples an ear tap will be performed.
Who may be eligible?
- Patients of Bay Creek Pediatrics, Finger Lakes Medical Associates Pediatrics, or Newark Pediatrics may qualify.
- Children ages 0 – 3
More information about the study can be found with the link below:
What is an ear tap?
An ear tap is a medical procedure. Anesthesia (numbing medicine) is first placed in the ear, to reduce pain. Afterwards, the health care provider looks into the ear using an otoscope to confirm that it looks infected. A needle is inserted to “suck out” the infected fluid behind the ear drum. This fluid is sent to the lab for studies.
The ear tap itself may help relieve pain, since it releases pressure on the ear drum.
These pictures are examples of what doctors see when looking at your child’s infected ear.
Acute Otitis Media Bacteria
Acute otitis media (Severe)
Normal
Otitis Media with Effusion Virus
Otitis Media with Effusion
Acute Otitis Media Severe
Otitis Media with Effusion (Glue Ear)
Otitis Media with Effusion (Atrophy of ear drum from old ear tubes)
Otitis Media with Effusion
Otitis Media with Effusion
Otitis Media with Effusion
For more information, please contact:
Karen Torres: karen.torres@rochesterregional.org or call (585) 922-9432
Colleen Wicks: colleen.wicks@rochesterregional.org