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Fusobacterium necrophorum otitis and mastoiditis in infants and young toddlers

T Stergiopoulou1, T J Walsh2

  • 1CHU Liege, Department of Pediatrics, Notre Dame des Bruyeres, rue de Gaillarmont 600, B. 4032, Liege, Belgium. stergiopouloulitsa@yahoo.com.

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases : Official Publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology
|March 9, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Fusobacterium necrophorum otitis media and mastoiditis are severe pediatric infections. Prompt treatment is crucial for favorable outcomes in infants and toddlers.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Otolaryngology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Fusobacterium necrophorum is increasingly identified in pediatric otitis media and mastoiditis.
  • These infections can lead to severe complications like osteomyelitis, bacteremia, and Lemierre's syndrome.
  • Infants and young toddlers (<2 years) present unique challenges due to immunological immaturity and delayed diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and analyze the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of otic infections caused by F. necrophorum in infants and young toddlers.
  • To highlight the invasive nature and potential complications of these infections in this vulnerable age group.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed for English-language case reports over the past 50 years.
  • Twelve well-described cases of F. necrophorum otitis and mastoiditis in children under 2 years old were identified and analyzed.

Main Results:

  • All reported cases involved F. necrophorum otitis and mastoiditis with complications.
  • Lemierre's syndrome or its variants occurred in 60% of patients.
  • Disseminated infection, including distal osteomyelitis and septic shock, was reported; however, all cases had favorable outcomes with treatment including intravenous antibiotics and mastoidectomy.

Conclusions:

  • Otitis and mastoiditis caused by F. necrophorum in children under 2 years old are invasive infections.
  • Severe complications are common but treatable, leading to favorable outcomes.
  • Early recognition and appropriate management are essential for combating these serious pediatric infections.

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