Mastoiditis

Mastoiditis encompasses a spectrum of infectious processes within the mastoid air cells that may develop as a complication of otitis media. Acute or chronic mastoiditis may result in the destruction of the bony septae and cortex of the mastoid as well as the extension of the infection into adjacent structures. Potential complications of mastoiditis include soft tissue abscess, petrositis, facial paralysis, labyrinthitis, meningitis, sinus thrombosis, and brain abscess. Fortunately, the incidence of mastoiditis and its complications has decreased over the past 75 years since the introduction of antibiotics. This chapter reviews the epidemiology, microbiology, diagnosis, complications, and treatment of mastoiditis.