Gradenigo syndrome complicated by a retro-pharyngeal abscess in an 8-year-old child: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Gradenigo's syndrome is a rare but severe clinical condition characterized by a triad of retro-orbital pain, ipsilateral sixth cranial nerve palsy, and otorrhea, typically resulting from petrous apicitis as a complication of acute otitis media. We report the case of a young patient presenting with these symptoms, along with imaging findings of petrous apex inflammation, abscess formation, and mastoiditis. The patient was successfully treated with high-dose antibiotics and surgical drainage. This case underscores the critical importance of early diagnosis and management to prevent potentially lifethreatening complications, with radiological imaging playing a key role in identifying the condition and guiding therapeutic decisions.

Keywords

• Gradenigo's syndrome
• Petrous apicitis
• Otitis media complications
• Retro-orbital pain
• Mastoiditis
• Skull base infections