Understanding the difference between otitis media with effusion and other forms of middle ear infection is important. Otitis media is a generic term defined as an inflammation of the middle ear without reference to a specific etiology or pathogenesis.
Scientists have long sought to uncover the structure and function of viruses. Viruses are unique in that they have been classified as both living and nonliving at various points in the history of biology. Viruses are particles that are capable of causing a number of diseases including cancer.
Viruses are the smallest and simplest microorganisms. Unlike bacteria, yeasts, and molds, viruses are incapable of reproducing independently. Instead, they must first invade the cells of another living organism called the host, before they can multiply.