Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2025
Endaural Endoscopic Atticoantrotomy Retrograde Mastoidectomy using a Constant Suction Bone-drilling Technique
Published on: May 23, 2021
Bezold's abscess, an uncommon complication of otitis media and cholesteatoma: a case report
Alexandra J Toloczko1, Thomas S Davis2, Mayada H Issa3
1Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, USA.
Background:
Mastoiditis frequently occurs in children as they are more susceptible to middle ear infections, but infrequently occurs in adults. A rare complication that results from mastoiditis and an obstructing cholesteatoma is a Bezold's abscess, of which there are less than 100 reported cases in literature to date.
Case Presentation:
Here, we present a case of a 72-year-old Caucasian man who has had no history of prior ear infections and was found to have a cholesteatoma and advanced acute coalescent mastoiditis complicated by a Bezold's abscess.
Conclusions:
Bezold's abscess is a rare entity infrequently encountered in the modern era, likely owing to more prompt treatment of otitis media. Cholesteatoma poses a great risk for both the development of otitis media and further progression to mastoiditis and its associated complications, such as Bezold's abscess. Knowledge of said abscess is crucial; without prompt recognition, further spread of infection can occur with vascular or mediastinal involvement.
Insights
A rare Bezold's abscess, a complication of mastoiditis and cholesteatoma, was diagnosed in an adult with no prior ear infections. Prompt recognition is vital to prevent severe infection spread.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Mastoiditis, a middle ear infection complication, is common in children but rare in adults.
- Bezold's abscess is an infrequent complication of mastoiditis and cholesteatoma, with fewer than 100 reported cases.
- Cholesteatoma increases the risk of otitis media, mastoiditis, and subsequent complications.
Observation:
- A 72-year-old male with no history of ear infections presented with cholesteatoma and advanced acute coalescent mastoiditis.
- The patient was diagnosed with a Bezold's abscess, a rare complication.
Findings:
- This case highlights the occurrence of Bezold's abscess in an adult without prior ear infection history.
- The rarity of Bezold's abscess may be due to earlier treatment of otitis media.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and treatment of cholesteatoma and mastoiditis are crucial to prevent Bezold's abscess.
- Awareness of Bezold's abscess is essential for clinicians to avoid delayed recognition and potential spread of infection to vascular or mediastinal structures.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Tonsillitis I: Introduction
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
01:17Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
01:28Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
01:26Tonsillitis II: Management
01:23Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...