Beyond the Ear: Complications Following Otitis Media

Abstract

Chronic otitis media (COM) is a prevalent condition typically characterized by recurrent ear infections and inflammation. It can result in a variety of serious complications, such as cholesteatoma, mastoiditis, meningitis, and brain abscess. Left untreated, the cholesteatoma can erode the surrounding bone and lead to irreversible hearing loss, balance problems, and facial nerve paralysis. Mastoiditis, an inflammation of the mastoid bone, causes severe pain, fever, and swelling, and can lead to a lifethreatening infection of the surrounding tissues. Brain abscess can cause headaches, fever, and seizures, and might result in permanent neurological damage or death.

Keywords

• cholesteatoma
• mastoidectomy
• mastoiditis
• otitis media