[Diagnosis and treatment of otogenic sigmoid sinus thrombophlebitis in children]

Sigmoid sinus thrombophlebitis(SST) as a severe complication of otogenic infections in children, its early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving prognosis. This study reports three cases (aged 2 years, 9 months to 4 years) of otogenic SST in children diagnosed by imaging, all secondary to acute otitis media. The clinical features mainly included recurrent high fever, ear pain, and postauricular swelling, with one case complicated by abducens nerve palsy and otorrhea. Imaging characteristics revealed: HRCT of the temporal bone showed destruction of the anterior wall of the sigmoid sinus; characteristic MRI findings of the ear included high T2WI signal in the sigmoid sinus area, ring enhancement post-contrast, and restricted diffusion on DWI; MRV of the ear clearly displayed the extent of venous sinus thrombosis. Treatment involved a comprehensive approach of surgical drainage combined with sensitive antibiotics and anticoagulant therapy, and all children achieved clinical cure. Through literature review, it was found that SST in children has an insidious onset, and high vigilance is required when otogenic infection patients present with the "otitis media triad" (fever, ear pain, headache) accompanied by neurological symptoms. Imaging examination is crucial for early diagnosis, and standardized treatment (clearance of infection foci and adequate course of anti-infection and anticoagulation) can significantly improve prognosis, providing a reference for the clinical management of SST in children.