Mastoiditis is a complication of acute otitis media or infection on top of chronic suppurative otitis media (cholesteatoma). Fortunately, it is rare.
Possible complications of mastoiditis include:
- Intracranial
- Meningitis
- Abscess (cerebrum/cerebellum)
- Extracranial
- Mastoid abscess
- Facial nerve palsy
- Deafness
Diagnosis:
- Patient will be systemically unwell
- Preceding symptoms of Acute Otitis media
- Ear pushed forward and downward
- Swelling (often tender) behind ear.
Management is multidisciplinary involving both medical and ENT input. Treatment is with antibiotics, mostly IV, and occasional surgical drainage
C.M. & G.T – 12-10-26
Transfer to nearest Emergency Department for assessment and initial management. ED will contact the relevant teams.
Refer immediately to the nearest Emergency Department.
