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.

Access Microbiology
|January 16, 2023
PubMed

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.

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