CT2: Swelling behind ear –

History of Present Illness:

A 2 year is brought in by parents for 4 days of low grade fever after getting over a URI and 1 day of swelling behind her left ear

Vital Signs & Physical Exam:

Vital signs are normal.  Physical exam is also normal except for left sided otitis media and swelling behind the left ear

What is the most likely diagnosis?

  • A) Non-accidental trauma
  • B) Mastoiditis
  • C) Congenital branchial cleft cyst
  • D) Normal variant

SCROLL DOWN FOR ANSWERS & 1-MINUTE CONSULT

 

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QUIZ ANSWER:

  • A) Non-accidental trauma
  • B) Mastoiditis – CORRECT
  • C) Congenital branchial cleft cyst
  • D) Normal variant

1-Minute Consult on this topic: Click HERE and scroll to

 

CASE CONCLUSION: CT showed mastoiditis with sub-periosteal abscess and small intracranial epidural abscess in the sigmoid fossa (see below).  Transferred to Children’s Hospital.  MRI + MRV with contrast confirmed findings with no cerebral venous thrombosis.  Went to the OR for the abscess.  Completed 4 weeks of IV then PO ABX and did well.