The changing face of petrous apicitis-a 40-year experience

What is it about?

Gradenigo Syndrome is a rare complication of chronic infections of the ear. It is associated with severe pain behind the eye, ear drainage of pus and double vision. The term is used synonymously with petrous apicitis. We have found in reviewing 40-years-worth of our patients that the assumption is untrue. We have found that in our series of patients the detection of the condition over the decades because of CT and MRI has increased however due to more efficacious antibiotics the need for surgery has decreased.

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Why is it important?

Though rare, Petrous Apicitis still occurs. When it does occur it can be extremely debilitating and can even be life threatening. Early detection and treatment is vitally important. We the authors have suggested treatment algorithms for the condition. In the "on line" version we have included comprehensive historical review, anatomy, pathology, surgical approaches and a unique case report.

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