Cochlear implant and otitis media: a pilot study to assess the feasibility of pseudomonas aeruginosa and streptococcus pneumoniae infection in the cat

Abstract

An experimental model for the induction of otitis media in cats is described using pseudomonas aeruginosa and streptococcus pneumoniae. Until now the cat has been regarded as being resistant to streptococcus pneumoniae infections, whereas pseudomonas aeruginosa is known to cause a most virulent otitis media in this animal. A successful inoculation using streptococcus pneumoniae, however, can be achieved by direct inoculation of a highly concentrated suspension of microorganisms in the bulla, retention of the organisms by Gelfoam®, and enhancement of virulence by intrapertioneal inoculation in mice. The model promises to be an important contribution in studying the effects of pneumococcal otitis media in Cochlear Implants.