Back to the list
Congress: ECR25
Poster Number: C-12677
Type: Poster: EPOS Radiologist (educational)
DOI: 10.26044/ecr2025/C-12677
Authorblock: S. Javadi, F. Azizinik, S. Mirzaei; Tehran/IR
Disclosures:
Sheida Javadi: Nothing to disclose
Fahimeh Azizinik: Nothing to disclose
Samira Mirzaei: Nothing to disclose
Keywords: CNS, Ear / Nose / Throat, Head and neck, CT, MR, Education, Imaging sequences, Infection
Learning objectives To describe the extension pattern of inflammation and probable complications in malignant otitis externa (MOE). To explain step-by-step approaches to temporal imaging to avoid missing MOE and its complications.
Read more Background Malignant otitis externa (MOE) is an invasive external ear infection that spreads to adjacent soft tissues and osseous structures. MOE may progress to skull base osteomyelitis, causing life-threatening extra- or intracranial complications. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most common pathogen associated with MOE. Immunocompromised individuals and elderly diabetic patients are particularly susceptible to MOE, which is typically associated with severe otalgia and otorrhea. Imaging is crucial for early diagnosis and recognizing complications. Radiologists should consider the diagnosis of MOE while reporting CT scans...
Read more Findings and procedure details - Anatomical Structures Related to the External Auditory Canal (EAC) and Possible Extension Patterns for Malignant Otitis Externa (MOE) (Fig. 1)Radiologists should be familiar with the anatomical structures related to the external auditory canal (EAC) and the possible extension patterns for MOE, as shown in Figure 1. In MOE, the invasive infection of the external auditory canal and periauricular soft tissue tends to spread anteromedially to the retrocondylar space and then to deeper cervical spaces, such as the parapharyngeal and...
Read more Conclusion In the imaging assessment of malignant otitis externa (MOE), a systematic approach is essential for ensuring accurate diagnosis and identifying potential complications. The step-by-step evaluation of temporal CT scans and MRIs allows radiologists to effectively detect the characteristic patterns of infection and inflammation associated with MOE. By carefully assessing soft tissues, bony structures, and intracranial components, radiologists can recognize subtle changes that may indicate the presence of osteomyelitis, abscess formation, or vascular involvement. Consistent application of this structured methodology not...
Read more References Rubin Grandis J, Branstetter BF 4th, Yu VL. The changing face of malignant (necrotizing) external otitis: clinical, radiological, and anatomic correlations. Lancet Infect Dis. 2004; 4(1): 34-39. Álvarez Jáñez F, Barriga LQ, Iñigo TR, Roldán Lora F. Diagnosis of skull base osteomyelitis. RadioGraphics. 2021; 41(1): 156-174. Kwon BJ, Han MH, Oh SH, Song JJ, Chang KH. MRI findings and spreading patterns of necrotizing external otitis: is a poor outcome predictable? Clin Radiol. 2006; 61(6): 495-504. Mani N, Sudhoff H, Rajagopal S, Moffat D, Axon PR. Cranial...
Read more
GALLERY