Skull base osteomyelitis secondary to Scedosporium apiospermum infection

Abstract

Scedosporium apiospermum is a common environmental mold which is increasingly reported in the literature as a cause of infection, particularly in the immunocompromised patient population. We present a case of malignant otitis externa due to S apiospermum, complicated by spread of infection causing skull base osteomyelitis, internal carotid artery vasculitis and subsequent stroke. Despite the multiple complications encountered, prompt diagnosis and initiation of appropriate antifungal treatment resulted in patient survival. Multiple imaging modalities were used to aid the establishment of the diagnosis in this complex case and highlight the radiological findings associated with skull base osteomyelitis and its possible complications. Keywords: Skull base osteomyelitis, Malignant otitis externa, Mycotic aneurysm, Scedosporium apiospermum, Fungal infection