Mastoiditis

Question 1

What is mastoiditis

Answer 1

Bacterial infection of the mastoid cells causing inflammation behind the ear.

Question 2

Causes of mastoiditis

Answer 2

Previous middle ear infection spreading to mastoid cells. Cholesteatoma. Immunocompromised.

Question 3

Mastoiditis presentation

Answer 3

0.5-1yrs presents with throbbing ear ache and swelling/tenderness/redness behind ear. May have conductive hearing loss and discharge from ear. May have fever.

Question 4

Mastoiditis differentials

Answer 4

Post-auricular lymphadenitis, Meningitis, Cellulitis, Parotid swelling, otitis media/externa

Question 5

Mastoiditis investigations

Answer 5

Ear culture - raised WCC. Mastoid radiography shows opacity. Red and bulging or perforated TM

Question 6

Mastoiditis treatment

Answer 6

Refer to hospital immediately for IV antibiotics.
Myringotomy - drain middle ear
Mastoidectomy - remove part of mastoid bone