Mastoiditis

Question 1

What is it?

Answer 1

develops when an infection spreads from the middle to the mastoid air spaces of the temporal bone.

Question 2

features

Answer 2

otalgia: severe, classically behind the ear

there may be a history of recurrent otitis media
fever

the patient is typically very unwell

swelling, erythema and tenderness over the mastoid process

the external ear may protrude forwards

ear discharge may be present if the eardrum has perforated

Question 3

ix

Answer 3

Ct if complications are suspected

Question 4

Mx

Answer 4

IV Abx

Question 5

Complications

Answer 5

facial nerve palsy
hearing loss
meningitis