Malignant external otitis with multiple cranial nerve involvement

Am J Otol. 1979 Oct;1(2):115-20.

Abstract

A case of bilateral malignment external otitis with multiple cranial nerve deficits is presented. Thirty-five similar cases reported in the world literature are reviewed. All cranial nerves have been involved with the exception of the first and fourth. The resultant pseudomonas ostemyelitis may be spread extensively in these elderly diabetic patients to involve the entire base of the skull as well as other structures. The preferred treatment is long term systemic antibiotics followed by surgical intervention for plateau or further progression of disease. The overall mortality is 61 percent (22/36), a lower figure than previously reported.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cranial Nerve Diseases / etiology*
  • Diabetes Complications
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mastoid / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteomyelitis / etiology
  • Otitis Externa / complications*
  • Otitis Externa / etiology
  • Otitis Externa / therapy
  • Pseudomonas Infections*
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa
  • Tympanoplasty

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents