CT findings in tuberculous otomastoiditis. A case report.
OBJECTIVE
Otomastoiditis is a rare but important manifestation of tuberculosis and is well recognizable when information on its clinical course is considered in connection with the radiographic changes.


METHODS
A patient with a clinical history of chronic otorrhea, resistant to conventional therapy but without dramatic symptoms, was referred for CT examination.


RESULTS
CT revealed widespread soft tissue densities in the tympanic cavity and in the mastoid process, with bone erosions in the latter. Surgery and bacteriology confirmed the diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.


CONCLUSIONS
CT evidence of widespread bone destruction without clinical signs of aggressive infection should suggest the diagnosis of a mycobacterial process. Early treatment is essential in order to avoid propagation of the disease and lasting loss of function.
Cavallin
L
L
Department of Radiology, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden.
Muren
C
C
D000368:Aged; D004432:Ear, Middle / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008416:Mastoid / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008417:Mastoiditis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000382:microbiology; D010034:Otitis Media with Effusion / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000382:microbiology; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014394:Tuberculosis, Osteoarticular / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*