Mastoid subperiosteal abscess management in children

The management of a mastoid subperiosteal abscess has traditionally required mastoidectomy. With the improvement of antibiotic therapy current literature supports the treatment of uncomplicated acute mastoiditis with myringotomy and intravenous antibiotics. Treatment of a mastoid subperiosteal abscess with tympanostomy tube insertion, intravenous antibiotics, and postauricular incision and drainage of the abscess avoids the morbidity and potential complications of mastoid surgery in young children. Three patients diagnosed with a mastoid subperiosteal abscess were managed in this way. The outcome of their treatment has been documented with lengthy otologic follow-up. Complete resolution of the acute infectious process was achieved in all cases with no evidence of recurrent disease.