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Paralysis from an ear infection: a severe case of otitis externa leading to acute complete cervical cord syndrome

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: We report a case of a generally fit and well 54-year-old man who presented with a 2-day history of worsening left-sided otorrhea, headache, neck stiffness, vomiting and fever on the background of a 7-week history of otitis externa (OE). His condition progressed dramatically as he developed symptoms consistent with acute complete cervical cord syndrome with radiological evidence of skull base osteomyelitis, parapharyngeal, retropharyngeal and paravertebral abscesses and sigmoid sinus thrombus. Ultimately, he made a significant, although not complete, recovery. This case is unique in demonstrating how OE can develop into a potentially life threatening condition. It emphasises the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of OE, the recognition of 'red flag' symptoms and highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach when managing complex complications of OE.

Source: BMJ Case Reports

DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-245594

Authors: Rachael Collins, George Lafford, Laura Parry

Institutions: University of East Anglia, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, James Paget University Hospital, James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Language: English

Topic: Otolaryngology and Infectious Diseases

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W3215604875

FWCI:

Cites: 13

Cited by:

Related to: 10