[Tuberculous otitis media in an adolescent. Clinical case]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Tuberculous otitis media (TOM) is an uncommon manifestation of tuberculosis (TB).
• TOM often lacks a distinct clinical presentation, complicating early diagnosis.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment of TOM are essential to prevent severe complications.

Observation:

• This article details a case of TOM in a 17-year-old adolescent.
• Middle ear involvement was the initial clinical sign, preceding radiological evidence of pulmonary TB.
• The patient's condition did not respond to standard antibacterial treatments.

Findings:

• Prolonged otitis media unresponsive to antibiotics warrants investigation for mycobacterial infection.
• TOM can be the primary clinical manifestation of tuberculosis.
• Radiological findings confirmed pulmonary TB after initial middle ear symptoms.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider TOM in patients with persistent otitis media, especially those from or linked to TB-endemic areas.
• Screening of migrants and refugees from endemic regions for TOM is recommended.
• Raising awareness of TOM's atypical presentation is vital for timely diagnosis and management.