High resolution computed tomography of the temporal bone in infants and children: a review

Pathologic conditions involving the temporal bone in infants and children are now commonly diagnosed by computed tomography (CT). The importance of utilizing high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) with magnified, thin (1.5 mm) scans in both the axial and coronal planes is stressed in order to obtain the maximal anatomic information that is critical for proper diagnosis. A retrospective analysis of 388 cases reveals a positive diagnostic yield ranging from 65% in temporal bone trauma to 20% in clinically suspected neoplasm. Selected case reports of congenital abnormalities, inflammatory processes, traumatic lesions, and tumors will be presented. We conclude that HRCT is an excellent diagnostic modality and should be used liberally to evaluate the temporal bone in children.