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Tuberculous otomastoiditis in children
Insights
Tuberculous otomastoiditis is a rare but serious infection in young children. Early diagnosis and treatment with medication and surgery are crucial to prevent complications like hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tuberculous otomastoiditis is a rare manifestation of tuberculosis affecting the ear and mastoid bone.
- Literature review highlights its prevalence in infants and young children.
Observation:
- Three pediatric cases of tuberculous otomastoiditis are presented.
- Analysis of thirteen reported cases since 1960 indicates a predilection for younger age groups.
Findings:
- Delayed diagnosis is common, leading to severe complications such as irreversible hearing loss and facial nerve paralysis.
- All thirteen reported cases since 1960 achieved infection control through antituberculous medication and surgical drainage.
Implications:
- Mandatory tuberculosis screening is recommended for children presenting with chronic ear infections.
- Periodic tuberculosis testing for all children is advised to facilitate early detection and management.
Abstract:
We report three cases of tuberculous otomastoiditis in children. Review of the literature, with particular emphasis on the ten other cases reported since 1960, discloses that this form of tuberculosis is most frequent in infants and young children. All too often, the diagnosis is made too late, with resulting complications such as irreversible hearing loss and facial nerve paralysis. Antituberculous medication and surgical drainage controlled the infection in all 13 cases diagnosed since 1960. Tests for tuberculosis in children with chronic ear infection should be mandatory, but periodic testing of all children is recommended.