The severity and frequency of serious complications of the otitic infections accompanying influenza have impressed many physicians, so that even now when bullous hemorrhagic lesions are seen on the ear drum or on the otitic canal wall a feeling of considerable concern is aroused. After seeing many such complications in persons with noninfluenzal conditions, I was impressed by the sudden and severe onset and by the intensity of the associated pain, but also by the favorable outcome in most instances. I attempted, therefore, to learn through the literature and by personal communication with competent otologists what the general opinion is as to the significance of these lesions, their course and the therapy of choice, and I was surprised at the differences in the opinions expressed. Some regarded these lesions as a sign of the presence of true influenza; others expressed the belief that they occur in the same manner in