Mastoiditis

Mastoiditis is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mastoid bone, which is located behind the ear. The mastoid bone is part of the temporal bone and contains air-filled cavities that connect to the middle ear.

Causes and Risk Factors

Mastoiditis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Staphylococcus aureus. The infection typically spreads from the middle ear to the mastoid bone through the air-filled cavities. Risk factors for developing mastoiditis include:

• History of recurrent ear infections (otitis media)
• Recent ear surgery or trauma
• Weakened immune system
• Aging, as the risk increases with age

Symptoms

The symptoms of mastoiditis may include:

• Ear pain or discomfort
• Fever
• Redness and swelling behind the ear
• Pus or discharge from the ear
• Hearing loss or decreased hearing
• Vertigo or dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting

Diagnosis

Mastoiditis is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests, including:

• Otoscopy (examination of the ear canal and eardrum)
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to evaluate the extent of the infection
• Culture of ear discharge or blood to identify the causative bacteria

Treatment

Treatment for mastoiditis usually involves a combination of antibiotics and supportive care. The goals of treatment are to:

• Eliminate the infection with antibiotics, such as intravenous (IV) antibiotics or oral antibiotics
• Manage symptoms, such as pain and fever, with over-the-counter medications
• Drain any abscesses or infected fluid that may have accumulated behind the ear

Complications

If left untreated or inadequately treated, mastoiditis can lead to serious complications, including:

• Brain abscess or meningitis (infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord)
• Facial paralysis or weakness
• Hearing loss or permanent damage to the ear
• Sepsis, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the infection spreads to the bloodstream

Prevention

To reduce the risk of developing mastoiditis, it is essential to:

• Practice good ear hygiene and avoid inserting objects into the ears
• Get vaccinated against Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae
• Treat ear infections promptly and completely with antibiotics, if prescribed by a healthcare provider

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is mastoiditis?
Infection of the mastoid bone in the skull.

What causes mastoiditis?
Bacterial infection, often from untreated or severe otitis media.

What are symptoms of mastoiditis?
Ear pain, fever, headache, and redness behind the ear.

How is mastoiditis diagnosed?
Physical exam, imaging tests, and lab tests to identify bacteria.

Can mastoiditis be treated with antibiotics?
Yes, intravenous antibiotics are often used to treat the infection.

What are complications of untreated mastoiditis?
Meningitis, brain abscess, and permanent hearing loss.

Can mastoiditis be prevented?
Yes, by treating otitis media promptly and properly.

How long does it usually take to recover from mastoiditis?
Several weeks with proper treatment and rest.

Is surgery necessary for mastoiditis?
Sometimes, to drain the infection or remove infected tissue.

Can mastoiditis recur?
Yes, if the underlying cause is not fully treated.