What is Mastoiditis?

What is Mastoiditis?

Mastoiditis is an infection of the mastoid bone, located just behind the ear. The mastoid bone is filled with air spaces, similar to a sponge, and these air spaces are connected to the middle ear and the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the nose and throat.

In childhood, frequent upper respiratory infections can lead to the spread of bacteria from the nose and Eustachian tube to the middle ear, and ultimately to the mastoid bone. In other words, when there is an ear infection, the air cells in the mastoid bone also become infected, leading to inflammation. Unresolved middle ear infections, particularly in childhood, can turn into chronic infections. A middle ear infection lasting longer than three months tends to become chronic.

When the infection becomes chronic, the tissues in the middle ear, especially the ossicles (the hammer, anvil, and stirrup bones), may deteriorate, leading to damage to the middle ear structures and perforation of the eardrum. This can affect the individual’s hearing and perception from childhood onwards. Additionally, each middle ear infection can also involve the mastoid cells, and when this infection becomes chronic, a tumor-like mass called a cholesteatoma (which resembles an onion skin) can form. This can further cause bone infection in the mastoid bone behind the ear.

As a result, the ear may continuously discharge a foul-smelling, bloody fluid. Since the ear is located near the brain and facial nerves, infections in this area can lead to facial paralysis (if near the facial nerve) or brain infections like meningitis (if near the brain). For this reason, it is essential to treat ear discharge promptly, starting from childhood. If there are persistent ear problems, foul-smelling discharge, or hearing loss, mastoiditis and cholesteatoma should be carefully considered. It is important to consult an ENT specialist as soon as possible.