Colon cancer metastasis to the lateral skull base masquerading as mastoiditis

Abstract

Temporal bone metastases (TBMs) have most commonly been reported as a consequence of disseminated breast, lung, and prostate malignancy. We present an unusual case of adenocarcinoma of the colon metastatic to the temporal bone and middle cranial fossa presenting as altered mental status, confusion, and seizures 7 years after treatment of the primary lesion. Initially, CT imaging was concerning for mastoiditis. However, contrast-enhanced MRI along with multidisciplinary surgical intervention confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic adenocarcinoma as a late manifestation of previously treated intestinal cancer. Keywords: Temporal bone, Metastasis, Lateral skull base, Intestinal adenocarcinoma, Colorectal carcinoma