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Traumatic temporal bone fracture with middle ear effusion: A case report
Shiavax J Rao1, Raymond K Tu2,3, David P Blackwood4
1MedStar Health Internal Medicine Residency Program, Department of Medicine, MedStar Union Memorial Hospital, 210 E University Pkwy, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
A rare traumatic temporal bone fracture in a 76-year-old woman caused middle ear effusion and hearing loss. Prompt CT imaging confirmed the fracture and associated complications, highlighting the need for careful evaluation of head injuries.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Traumatic head injury can lead to temporal bone fractures, a rare but serious complication.
- Middle ear effusion is an uncommon sequela of such fractures.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old woman presented with a scalp hematoma after a fall, initially showing subtle temporal lobe changes on CT.
- She later developed headache, hearing impairment, and reduced bone conduction.
Findings:
- Repeat CT confirmed a right temporal lobe contusion and right mastoid/middle ear effusion.
- Dedicated temporal bone CT revealed an acute longitudinal fracture of the right mastoid bone without middle ear extension.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of clinical history and vigilance in diagnosing temporal bone fractures.
- Early identification and management of associated complications like middle ear effusion are crucial for patient outcomes.
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