Acute mastoiditis in children in the State of Qatar

Background: Acute mastoiditis is a serious complication of otitis media. Its diagnosis and treatment carry a great importance due to its potentially serious consequences. This study was designed to evaluate recent clinical experiences with pediatric acute mastoiditis in the State of Qatar. Our objectives were to highlight the importance of this disease and its possible complications, which emphasize the necessity of early diagnosis and proper treatment. We also assessed the commonality of this condition compared to some other countries as well as explored their experience in this regard. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study of all children ≤ 14 years presenting to the pediatric emergency centers (PEC) in the State of Qatar between January 2005 and December 2008, with a clinical diagnosis of acute mastoiditis supported by CT scan findings. Results: Twenty-seven patients were diagnosed with acute mastoiditis during the study period, with a mean age of 5.4 years. Only four children were diagn...