Otitis Media Is the Most Common Childhood Infection for Which

Otitis media is the most common childhood infection for which antibiotics are prescribed, and antibiotic use has led to a decrease in the complication of mastoiditis. However, antibacterial medications for treatment of otitis media are only encouraged under which circumstances?

A) If there are malformations to the outer ear structures
B) If the tympanic membrane is at risk of perforation
C) If there is purulent drainage from the ear canal
D) If the child does not demonstrate clinical improvement