An unusual foreign body in the mastoid process

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Traumatology

Background:

• Foreign body penetration of the mastoid process is rare.
• Unusual presentations can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a unique case of a child with a metallic pen refill lodged in the mastoid bone.
• To emphasize the importance of considering atypical presentations in pediatric head trauma.

Main Methods:

• Case report detailing clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, and management.
• Review of relevant literature on pediatric mastoid foreign bodies.

Main Results:

• A plastic pen refill with a metallic end penetrated the mastoid bone.
• The foreign body remained asymptomatic and undetected under the skin initially.
• Diagnosis was confirmed via imaging, and surgical removal was successful.

Conclusions:

• Atypical foreign body injuries to the mastoid require high clinical suspicion.
• Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for preventing complications in pediatric patients.