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Actinomyces and Shewanella algae complicated paediatric mastoiditis: a case report of a multidisciplinary approach
Mafalda Martins Sousa1,2, Madalena von Hafe3,4, Ana Reis-Melo3,5
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, EPE, Porto, Portugal.
Insights
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, a rare complication of acute mastoiditis, can be fatal. This case highlights a unique infection by Shewanella algae and Actinomyces europaeus in a pediatric patient.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare but serious complication of acute mastoiditis in children.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial due to the often subtle presentation of CVST.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old male presented with symptoms of acute otitis media and mastoiditis.
- Brain imaging revealed mastoid opacification, cerebral sinus thrombosis, and an extradural collection.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of pediatric acute mastoiditis with CVST caused by a dual infection with *Shewanella algae* and *Actinomyces europaeus*.
- Microbiological analysis confirmed the presence of both *S. algae* and *A. europaeus*.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering unusual pathogens in pediatric mastoiditis complicated by CVST.
- A multidisciplinary approach involving medical and surgical interventions is effective for achieving a full recovery.
- Highlights the need for comprehensive microbiological investigation in complex pediatric infections.
Abstract:
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in children is a rare complication of acute mastoiditis that can potentially be fatal. Clinical expertise is essential for early diagnosis and management due to its subtle course. We present the first known case of paediatric acute mastoiditis with venous sinus thrombosis caused by Shewanella algae and Actinomyces europaeus . A 17-year-old male presented clinical signs of right acute otitis media and mastoiditis. Brain computed tomography showed mastoid opacification, cerebral sinus thrombosis and an extradural collection. Microbiology revealed the presence of S. algae and A. europaeus . A multidisciplinary approach combining medical and surgical treatment allowed the patient to make a full recovery.
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