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Skull base osteomyelitis following a mastoidectomy
Chang-Woo Kim1, Jong Joo Lee, Hyeon-Seong Kim
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul, South Korea. kcw5088@dreamwiz.com
Abstract:
Skull base osteomyelitis is a rare but life-threatening condition that is characterized by osteitis of the temporal bone and skull base. Although skull base osteomyelitis is recognized as a rare complication of malignant external otitis or middle ear infection, it may also occur following a mastoidectomy. We present a case of an 81-year-old woman who suffered severe otalgia with normal-looking EAC and tympanic membrane that developed six weeks following a canal wall up mastoidectomy. Otalgia was the only abnormal feature to suspect occurrence of skull base osteomyelitis.
Insights
Skull base osteomyelitis is a rare, life-threatening infection. Severe ear pain after mastoidectomy, even with a normal ear exam, can indicate this serious condition.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Skull base osteomyelitis is a rare but severe infection affecting the temporal bone and skull base.
- It is often a complication of malignant external otitis or middle ear infections.
- This condition can also arise post-mastoidectomy.
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