Otogenic intracranial complications: a 10-year retrospective review in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesTo analyse the data for patients with otogenic intracranial complications during the study period and draw a comparison with internationally published literature.MethodA retrospective, observational study was conducted, covering a 10-year period between 1 January 2002 and 31 December 2012.ResultsThe study comprised 108 patients (66 males (61.1 per cent) and 42 females (38.9 per cent)), of which 75 per cent were aged less than 20 years. Post-auricular swelling, otorrhoea and a decreased level of consciousness were the most frequently reported symptoms in patients with otogenic intracranial complications. Patients with human immunodeficiency virus did not show any different patterns in terms of presentation and outcome.ConclusionA triad of post-auricular swelling, otorrhoea and a decreased level of consciousness should make the clinician more heedful of otogenic intracranial complications. Patients with human immunodeficiency virus and human immunodeficiency virus negative patients were equally affected and had similar presentations. Early surgical management of patients was associated with shorter hospital stays and better outcomes.