Sigmoid sinus septic thrombophlebitis due to chronic mastoiditis and otitis media: A case report

Abstract

Sigmoid sinus septic thrombosis is an infrequent complaint that may lead to extensive morbidity and mortality. We report a case with septic thrombosis of the sigmoid sinus caused by chronic mastoiditis and otitis media. A 29-year-old male presented with a 14-day history of tinnitus and true vertigo with a gradually developing swelling on the right side of the neck. Neck computerized tomography (CT) scan found a mastoid abscess. Also, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an enlargement of the sigmoid sinus veins that was characteristic of septic thrombophlebitis (SSST). The patient's condition and his symptoms and signs improved under antibiotic therapy and his mastoid mass size decreased gradually. In sigmoid sinus septic thrombosis, timely diagnosis and quick management, using broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics, are critical for case recovery.

Thrombosis of sigmoid sinus, transverse sinus, and internal jugular vein in chronic otitis media in 9-year-old girl: a case report

“…Otorrhoea is also a frequent manifestation of SSST, which was present in our patient. However, postauricular edema, which is a frequent manifestation of SSST was absent in our case 7 .…”

“…Sigmoid sinus thrombosis is a rare condition that is typically brought on by infections, thrombophilia, head trauma, some types of cancer, and intravenous drug use and cause in our case was infective. The most frequent causes of sigmoid sinus septic thrombosis (SSST), which has an infectious etiology, are acute or chronic otitis media 7 .…”

“…For the patient’s recovery in sigmoid sinus septic thrombosis, prompt diagnosis by CT scan or MRI and prompt treatment with broad spectrum intravenous antibiotics are crucial 7 . While some advocates long-term use of broad spectrum antibiotics that cross the blood–brain barrier, some use surgical treatment by mastoidectomy (especially if chronic otitis media is the cause) for the treatment of SSST.…”