Aphasia as the Initial Presentation of Acute Otomastoiditis in an Elderly Male

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Acute otomastoiditis is a serious complication of acute otitis media, rarely seen in elderly patients.
• Limited research exists on the clinical presentation and progression of acute otomastoiditis in geriatric populations.
• Antibiotic prophylaxis for acute otitis media has reduced the incidence of acute otomastoiditis.

Observation:

• A 76-year-old male presented with sudden global aphasia, an atypical symptom for acute otomastoiditis.
• The patient was diagnosed with acute otomastoiditis complicated by a cerebellopontine angle epidural abscess.
• This rare presentation necessitated both medical and surgical management.

Findings:

• This case represents the first documented instance of acute otomastoiditis presenting with sudden global aphasia.
• The cerebellopontine angle epidural abscess was a direct complication of the otomastoiditis.
• Successful management required a coordinated multidisciplinary approach.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering rare neurological presentations in elderly patients with otomastoiditis.
• Underscores the need for prompt diagnosis and intervention in complex otomastoiditis cases.
• Emphasizes the critical role of multidisciplinary teams in managing uncommon otolaryngological emergencies.