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Pott's Puffy tumor after minor head trauma
Gabriel J Martinez-Diaz1, Renee Hsia
1University of California, San Francisco, CA 94110, USA.
Abstract:
Posttraumatic osteomyelitis may occur as a direct result of bony injury after trauma or arise as a nosocomial infection after the treatment of trauma. Most cases arise after an open fracture, but bony infection can also arise from spread of infection from contiguous soft tissues or by puncture wounds. Motor vehicle accidents, sport injuries, and the use of orthopedic hardware to manage trauma have contributed to the apparent increase in prevalence of posttraumatic osteomyelitis. We report on a case of Pott's Puffy tumor in a previously healthy woman who had an episode of minor forehead trauma 1 month before presentation to the emergency department (ED), complaining of persistent headache and swelling of her forehead. Results of computed tomography (CT) revealed features characteristic of this condition. After postobliteration of the left frontal sinus via a bicoronal approach with an iliac crest bone graft and some dental extractions and 2 weeks of antibiotic therapy, the patient achieved a complete recovery.
Insights
Posttraumatic osteomyelitis, a bone infection after injury, can be challenging to treat. This case highlights Pott's Puffy tumor management for a full recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Posttraumatic osteomyelitis often follows open fractures or nosocomial infections after trauma treatment.
- Contributing factors include motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and orthopedic hardware.
- It can also result from contiguous soft tissue infection or puncture wounds.
Observation:
- A previously healthy woman presented with headache and forehead swelling after minor head trauma.
- Computed tomography (CT) confirmed features consistent with Pott's Puffy tumor.
Findings:
- The patient underwent surgical obliteration of the left frontal sinus with an iliac crest bone graft and dental extractions.
- A 2-week course of antibiotic therapy was administered.
Implications:
- Successful management of Pott's Puffy tumor involves a multidisciplinary approach.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in posttraumatic infections.
Related Concept Videos
Traumatic Brain Injury l: Introduction
Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Brain Abscess l: Introduction

