A Rare Case of Luc's Abscess in an Immunocompromised Female Patient

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Otitis media can lead to rare but serious complications.
• Luc's abscess, a subperiosteal collection beneath the temporal muscle, arises from middle ear infection.
• Delayed diagnosis is common due to the rarity of Luc's abscess.

Observation:

• A 48-year-old female presented with symptoms suggestive of a complicated middle ear infection.
• Imaging revealed Luc's abscess with concurrent mastoid bone involvement.
• The patient's clinical presentation was consistent with a deep-seated infection originating from the middle ear.

Findings:

• The case highlights the importance of considering Luc's abscess in the differential diagnosis of deep ear infections.
• Successful management involved a combination of appropriate medical and potentially surgical interventions.
• Early recognition and prompt treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in Luc's abscess.

Implications:

• Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for Luc's abscess in patients with otitis media and persistent symptoms.
• Understanding the pathophysiology and clinical course aids in timely diagnosis and effective treatment strategies.
• This case contributes to the literature on managing rare otitis media complications, emphasizing prompt intervention for mastoid and subperiosteal involvement.