The recent pediatric and otolaryngologic literature contains articles dealing with the use of a new ceruminolytic agent, Cerumenex,* to facilitate examination of the tympanic membranes in cases where the ear canals are occluded with wax.1,2 The use of this agent in 40 cases in one series and in 230 cases in another was not attended by adverse side-effects.
Report of a recent unfavorable reaction, believed to be due to the use of this medication, therefore seems indicated.
Report of Case
The patient was a 23/12-year-old white boy. Previously the boy had had several bouts of otitis media, one of which had required a myringotomy. Also in the past there had been several episodes of bronchitis, on occasion associated with wheezing. Because of the associated wheezing, an allergic component in the boy's problem was suspected. At that time, 14 months prior to the present difficulties, cow's milk had been removed