Tele-otoscopy Improves Pediatric Otitis Media Diagnosis
A 2026 scoping review (Jan 1, 2010–Feb 9, 2026) analyzed 52 studies across 18 countries mapping telehealth technologies and care models for pediatric otitis media. Asynchronous store-and-forward tele-otoscopy predominated, achieving substantial diagnostic agreement with in-person microscopy (κ 0.68–0.89; sensitivity 72–94%; specificity 93–98%). The review finds tele-otoscopy feasible to expand access but calls for larger multisite trials, standardized capture protocols, and AI validation.
Key Points
- 1Maps 52 studies across 18 countries, identifying asynchronous store-and-forward tele-otoscopy as dominant
- 2Demonstrates substantial diagnostic agreement (κ 0.68–0.89; sensitivity 72–94%; specificity 93–98%)
- 3Recommend standardized image-capture training and hybrid workflows to improve usability and scale services
Scoring Rationale
Comprehensive scoping review across 52 studies supports tele-otoscopy, but evidence is heterogeneous and lacks large multisite trials.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
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