Kennisvragen

During the development of this module, a systematic search was conducted to find studies that could answer the research question. Through the use of a systematic literature review with an assessment of the strength of evidence, it has become clear that there are still knowledge gaps within this module. The working group believes that further research is desirable to provide clearer answers to practical questions in the future.

Question

Can 18-FDG-PET/CT(or MRI) be used to predict cure of disease in patients with necrotizing otitis externa?

Explanation

As there is a wide variation in the extend of disease between patients with necrotizing otitis externa, the duration of treatment subsequently is varied as well. If there was a sensitive diagnostic tool that could predict when there is cure of disease, overtreatment with antibiotics could be reduced. In this regard, 18-FDG-PET/CT(or MRI) seems to be a promising diagnostic. A study could be performed (RCT or prospective) to further examine this possibility.