SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Silent but Fatal: Silent Otomastoiditis-Induced Facial Nerve Palsy

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Facial nerve palsy is a rare complication of acute otitis media (AOM), with an incidence of about 0.005%. Early diagnosis of AOM and prompt antibiotic treatment have reduced complication rates. When facial nerve palsy occurs secondary to otitis media, treatment is usually conservative, involving antibiotics and corticosteroids. If the tympanic membrane is intact, myringotomy with ventilation tube placement is recommended. Mastoidectomy may be considered if there is no improvement. Most patients recover fully, with 97% regaining facial function within three months.<br /><br />The conclusion emphasizes that silent mastoiditis can occur when antibiotic treatment temporarily relieves mastoid symptoms, masking the underlying disease. In cases of persistent otitis media combined with new neurologic symptoms, careful evaluation is needed. Such findings should prompt further investigation for extracerebral complications like mastoiditis, as well as intracranial complications such as abscess or meningitis.

Asset Subtitle

Maria Daniela Godoy

Meta Tag

Author List Christina Perez-Arche, Enrique Konstat Korzenny, Maria Daniela Godoy, Melissa C. Clemente, Silvia Carolina Escudero, Stephanie A. San Martin

Category Clinical Vignettes

Concept Peripheral Facial Nerve Palsy

Concept Acute Otitis Media

Concept Antibiotic Therapy

Concept Mastoiditis

Concept Corticosteroids

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Nicklaus Children's Hospital

Presenting Author Maria Daniela Godoy

Track Pediatric

Keywords

facial nerve palsy

acute otitis media

otitis media complications

mastoiditis

silent mastoiditis

antibiotic treatment

corticosteroids

myringotomy

ventilation tube

intracranial complications

Peripheral Facial Nerve Palsy

Acute Otitis Media

Antibiotic Therapy

Mastoiditis

Corticosteroids