Tuberculous Otitis Media in a Patient with Multiple Cerebral Tuberculomas: Case Report

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Neurology

Background:

• Tuberculous otitis media is an uncommon condition, particularly in individuals without a history of tuberculosis.
• Disseminated tuberculosis with central nervous system involvement, such as cerebral tuberculomas, is a severe manifestation.
• The coexistence of tuberculous otitis media and disseminated tuberculosis is rarely documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of tuberculous otitis media in a patient with disseminated tuberculosis and cerebral tuberculomas.
• To highlight the importance of considering tuberculosis in patients presenting with ear discharge and neurological symptoms, especially in endemic areas.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 38-year-old female patient.
• Clinical presentation: fever, altered sensorium, and ear discharge.
• Diagnostic evaluation including tests for disseminated tuberculosis and otitis media.

Main Results:

• The patient was diagnosed with disseminated tuberculosis and multiple cerebral tuberculomas.
• Smear-positive tuberculous otitis media was confirmed.
• The patient had no prior history of tuberculosis or predisposing factors.

Conclusions:

• Tuberculous otitis media can occur in the context of disseminated tuberculosis, even without prior history.
• A high index of suspicion is necessary for diagnosing this rare condition in endemic countries.
• Prompt diagnosis and management are essential for favorable outcomes.