Osteomyelitis of the central skull base: Otogenic and odontogenic sources. Multidetector CT study

AimThe aim of this study was to assess the rule of the MDCT in the diagnosis of central skull base osteomyelitis complicating otogenic and odontogenic sources as well as assessment of the extensions.Material and methodsThis study was conducted on 8 patients. Two patients had skull base osteomyelitis (SBO) complicating malignant otitis externa. Three cases of associated masticator space infection were seen. Two cases with history of oto-mastoiditis and one case of combined oto-mastoiditis and otitis externa were seen. Multi-slice CT machine was used for the assessment of all patients.ResultsThe involved bony structures showed medullary expansion and sclerosis with cortical discontinuity. Involvement of the foramen ovale, foramen spinosum and pterygo-palatine fossa was noted in 62.5% of cases.ConclusionThe MDCT can precisely detect the source and degree of extension of the fulminate infective process reaching the central skull base. The radiological evaluation of the skull base foramina and pterygo-palatine fossa is critical for the radiologist, which will be the link between different specialties that will deal with such spreading conditions including the oto-rhino-laryngologist, ophthalmogist, dentist, maxillo-facial, head and neck surgeons.