Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 9, 2026

Extracting the Cochlea from a Human Temporal Bone: A Cadaveric Protocol
Published on: August 18, 2023
Actinomycosis of the temporal bone with labyrinthine and facial nerve involvement
Deepak Mehta1, Melissa Statham, Daniel Choo
1Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA. deepakmehta71@yahoo.com
Objectives:
To demonstrate the clinical, radiologic, and pathologic findings of actinomycosis of the temporal bone.
Study Design:
Case report and literature review.
Methods:
Analysis of a case through medical records and literature review.
Results:
Actinomycosis is a rare cause of subacute-chronic suppurative infection of the temporal bone. We present an 11-year-old male with a history of ciliary dyskinesia presenting with a 6-week history of right-sided otorrhea, otalgia, and a 1-week history of progressive facial weakness. Final histopathology revealed a diagnosis of actinomycosis. A review of the literature showed 25 cases of temporal bone actinomycosis. This is the first reported case of actinomycosis causing facial nerve palsy and labyrinthine invasion. Effective treatment includes aggressive surgical debridement followed by long-term administration of appropriate antibiotic.
Conclusions:
Actinomycosis can be a cause for bone erosive lesions of the temporal bone and can result in significant morbidities. Prompt tissue diagnosis with suspicion for nonmalignant causes of bone erosive disease can help in implementing appropriate treatment.
Related Concept Videos
Blood and Nerve Supply to the Bones
Nutrient Artery
The nutrient artery is the main blood vessel that enters the diaphysis via the nutrient foramen. While most long bones have only one nutrient foramen, large bones, such as the femur, may have two. This...
Muscles for Facial Expressions
Facial Feedback Hypothesis
Antigens Involved in Adaptive Immunity
Complete Antigens
Complete antigens possess both immunogenicity and...
¹H NMR of Labile Protons: Temporal Resolution
The –OH proton in alcohols typically appears in the range of δ 2 to 5 ppm but can vary depending on the specific...
Assessing Body Temperature - Temporal Artery
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's...

