International Licensing Examination (ILE) Practice Test

What does 'non-suppurative OM' indicate?

1. Fluid present without infection

2. Presence of infected discharge

3. Fluid combined with inflammatory response

4. Chronic ear infection

The correct answer is: Fluid present without infection

'Non-suppurative OM' refers to non-suppurative otitis media, which is characterized by the presence of fluid in the middle ear without the presence of pus or infected discharge. This condition typically implies that while there is an accumulation of fluid, it is not due to an active bacterial infection, distinguishing it from suppurative otitis media, where there would be purulent discharge and infection. Therefore, when the condition is labeled as non-suppurative OM, it indicates a fluid presence that could be related to other factors, such as inflammation or eustachian tube dysfunction, but it is not associated with an infection that leads to pus formation. In contrast, the other options describe situations that involve infection or conditions that are more severe, which are not characteristic of non-suppurative OM.