Which bacteria is most commonly associated with acute otitis media?

Acute otitis media, a common condition in children characterized by inflammation and infection of the middle ear, is most commonly associated with Streptococcus pneumoniae. This bacterium is a significant pathogen in various pediatric infections due to its ability to colonize the nasopharynx and then ascend to the middle ear, particularly following viral upper respiratory tract infections that can impair eustachian tube function.

Streptococcus pneumoniae is known for causing a range of illnesses, including pneumonia and meningitis. It is also notable for its capsule, which helps it evade the host's immune response, making it a particularly virulent pathogen in young children.

In the context of acute otitis media, other bacteria can also play a role, but Streptococcus pneumoniae has been identified as the leading cause in a significant number of cases. The prominence of Streptococcus pneumoniae has been affected by the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, but it remains a critical focus in understanding the etiology of acute otitis media.