Mastoiditis is an infection that causes inflammation in the mastoid bone, located behind the ear. It is typically a complication of an untreated ear infection, where the infection spreads from the ear to the surrounding bone. The condition is often seen in children but can affect individuals of any age. Symptoms of mastoiditis include pain, swelling, and increased sensitivity behind the ear, as well as fever and ear discomfort.
The infection usually develops as a result of acute otitis media, a middle ear infection, when the bacteria spread from the ear to the mastoid bone. If left untreated, mastoiditis can lead to severe complications such as meningitis or the formation of pus. Prompt medical attention is crucial to manage the condition effectively and avoid further health risks.
If you suspect mastoiditis, it's important to see a healthcare provider, such as an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist, pediatrician, or general practitioner, as soon as possible. The condition is typically treated with intravenous antibiotics to fight the infection, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to drain pus or remove infected bone tissue.
Main symptoms
The key symptoms of mastoiditis include:
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Pain in the ear and surrounding area
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Redness, warmth, and/or swelling behind the ear
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A noticeable difference in the position of the ears
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Increased sensitivity of the skin in the area
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Fever
Mastoiditis commonly occurs after an ear infection or a few days following one. Additional signs such as pus drainage from the ear or a decrease in hearing may also be present. Swelling behind the ear can sometimes feel like a lump, which may be mistaken for swollen lymph nodes or pimples. Learn more about other causes of lumps behind the ear.
How it is diagnosed
Mastoiditis is typically diagnosed by an ENT specialist, pediatrician, or general practitioner based on the patient's symptoms and history of ear infections. An otoscopy, in which the doctor examines the inside of the ear using a magnifying instrument, is often performed to help confirm the diagnosis.
If symptoms are unclear, additional tests, such as a blood test to check for elevated C-reactive protein levels and a CT scan, may be recommended.
Common causes
Mastoiditis most commonly develops from an ear infection that wasn't properly treated, allowing bacteria to spread to the mastoid bone. The bacteria responsible for mastoiditis are often Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus, which can travel from the ear to the bone.
Treatment options
Mastoiditis is usually treated with intravenous antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone or vancomycin, administered for about two weeks. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to drain infected fluid from the ear or to perform a mastoidectomy, which involves the removal of infected bone tissue.
Possible complications
If left untreated or improperly treated, mastoiditis can lead to serious complications, including:
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Hearing loss
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Meningitis
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Brain abscesses
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Sepsis (a widespread infection in the bloodstream)
These complications can be life-threatening, making early diagnosis and treatment critical.