[Acute mastoiditis with intracranial complication in a pediatric patient]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Acute mastoiditis is a bacterial infection of the mastoid air-cell system, often stemming from acute otitis media.
• Common causative agents include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus.
• Mastoid infections can spread to adjacent structures, leading to serious intra or extracranial complications.

Observation:

• A 4-year-old girl presented with acute mastoiditis.
• The infection was caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
• She developed two significant intracranial complications: an intracranial epidural abscess and transverse and sigmoid sinus thrombosis.

Findings:

• Streptococcus pyogenes can cause severe intracranial complications originating from acute mastoiditis.
• The case demonstrates the potential for rapid progression from mastoid infection to life-threatening conditions.
• Co-occurrence of epidural abscess and venous sinus thrombosis is a critical finding.

Implications:

• Early recognition and aggressive treatment of acute mastoiditis are crucial in pediatric patients.
• Prompt management of intracranial complications is essential to prevent neurological damage or mortality.
• This case underscores the importance of considering rare but severe complications in mastoiditis management.