Bilateral Gradenigo's Syndrome; A Case Report

Abstract

Gradenigo's syndrome was diagnosed in a 5-year-old male with bilateral acute otitis media, paralysis of both abducens nerves and bilateral irritation of the trigeminal nerves. After myringotomy and administration of antibiotics, his tympanic membrance became normal, and the bilateral trigeminal nerve irritation disappeared, but residual mastoiditis was revealed by X-ray examination. Right extended mastoidectomy was performed including removal of the bony sinus plate on Mar. 2, 1990. Although bilateral abducens palsy improved immediately, serological findings and double vision deteriorated again 10 days after the operation. Reexploration was done on Mar. 16, 1990. Residual inflammatory changes in the petrous apex were eradicated, especially around the lateral sinus and anterior to the superior semicircular canal through the petrous apex. An extradural abscess was found at the petrous apex. The left trigeminal nerve irritation and the left abducens paralysis was attributed to the right petrositis because bilateral abducens nerve function recovered completely after the second operation on the right temporal bone. Since extradural abscess at the petrous apex is difficult to diagnose preoperatively and has been reported in many patients with Gradenigo's syndrome, it must be kept in mind in the diagnosis and the treatment of Gradenigo's syndrome. Twelve cases of Gradenigo's syndrome reported in Japan from 1960 to 1992 were reviewed. Acute otitis media was the cause in five, all children. In three of them abducens paralysis appeared within one week after onset of the acute otitis media. Mortality of Gradenigo's syndrome is still 10%, similar to that of brain abscess associated with otitis media.