HealthSeptember 4, 2026

otitis

oh-TY-tis

Definition

Inflammation or infection of the ear, often characterized by pain, swelling, and fluid buildup.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'ous' (ear) plus the suffix '-itis', which is used in medical terminology to denote inflammation.

In the news

The researchers monitored participants for otitis to track the frequency of ear infections in infants relative to their exposure to household pets.

Dog Microbes May Protect Against Childhood Infections

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