Tuberculous mastoiditis

The prevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is increasing due in part to the rising incidence of immunocompromised hosts. Although Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a well-documented pathogen in otitis media and mastoiditis, its extremely low incidence often precludes consideration when treating these infections. This is especially true when concomitant pulmonary symptoms are absent. We describe two patients who initially presented after prolonged unsuccessful medical and surgical therapy for chronic mastoiditis. In both, the diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis mastoiditis was made after the onset of complete facial paralysis. On subsequent investigations, one had an asymptomatic pulmonary focus while the other was felt to have primary mastoid disease. Both patients had normal immunological profiles. This report underscores the importance of considering a tuberculous infection in all cases of otitis media and mastoiditis which do not initially respond to conventional antibacterial therapy. This holds true in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts. Early diagnosis with prompt institution of antituberculous therapy is essential to avoid facial nerve paralysis and other grave complications.