What attribute of the Eustachian tube in infants contributes to recurrent otitis media?

The attribute of the Eustachian tube in infants that contributes to recurrent otitis media is that it is short and horizontal. In infants, the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx, is positioned more horizontally compared to that in older children and adults. This configuration makes it more challenging for fluid to drain from the middle ear into the throat, creating an environment conducive to the development of infections.

Because the tube is shorter, it is also less effective at equalizing pressure between the middle ear and the external environment. This situation can lead to the accumulation of fluid, which can become infected, thereby resulting in recurrent bouts of otitis media. The horizontal alignment also allows for easier access of pathogens from the nasopharynx to the middle ear, further increasing the risk of infections.

In contrast, other options describe attributes that generally do not align with the anatomical features of an infant's Eustachian tube, which detracts from their relevance to the question about recurrent otitis media.