Cholesterol granuloma in the middle fossa presenting 30 years after surgery for chronic otitis media: a case report

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Otolaryngology
• Pathology

Background:

• Cholesterol granulomas are rare, benign inflammatory lesions.
• Extradural cholesterol granulomas are even rarer, with few reported cases.
• Chronic otitis media can predispose to the development of cholesterol granulomas.

Observation:

• A massive left subtemporal extradural cholesterol granuloma was identified in a 45-year-old male patient.
• The granuloma communicated with the petrous temporal bone.
• The patient had a history of surgery for left chronic otitis media 30 years prior.

Findings:

• The cholesterol granuloma was diagnosed after it became symptomatic.
• The lesion's size and location suggest a slow-growing process.
• Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of cholesterol granuloma.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for delayed complications following middle ear surgery.
• Early diagnosis and management are crucial for preventing complications.
• Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis and optimal treatment of extradural cholesterol granulomas.