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Fatal meningitis and brain abscess resulting from foreign body-induced otomastoiditis
S A Goldman1, J K Ankerstjerne, K B Welker
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
Abstract:
Herein we report what we believe to be the only published case of an intracranial complication of otomastoiditis resulting from foreign-body material. The presence of a foreign body must be ruled out in any chronically draining ear, and all foreign material must be removed. The key to minimizing the morbidity of complications of infectious ear disease is early recognition and treatment. Early symptoms of complication include vertigo, new onset of headache or otalgia, or worsening headache or otalgia. Fever, malodorous ear drainage, and the presence of granulation tissue are warming findings. A high index of suspicion of infectious complications must be maintained in evaluating all patients with ear disease.
Insights
Foreign bodies in the ear can cause serious intracranial complications from otomastoiditis. Prompt removal of foreign material and early treatment of ear infections are crucial for preventing severe outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Otomastoiditis, an infection of the middle ear and mastoid, can lead to severe intracranial complications.
- Foreign bodies in the ear canal are a potential, though often overlooked, cause of chronic otomastoiditis.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of intracranial complication stemming from otomastoiditis caused by a foreign body.
- The patient presented with symptoms indicative of a serious ear infection and subsequent intracranial involvement.
Findings:
- The presence of a foreign body in a chronically draining ear necessitates its exclusion and removal.
- Early recognition of complications, including vertigo, headache, otalgia, fever, and malodorous drainage, is vital.
Implications:
- A high index of suspicion for infectious complications is essential in all patients with ear disease.
- Timely diagnosis and intervention are critical to minimize morbidity associated with ear infections and their complications.