ABSCESS OF THE MEDULLA OBLONGATA

Abstract

Localization of an abscess in the medulla oblongata is rare. A rather complete survey of the literature shows that only 9 cases have previously been reported (table). Another case is here added to the list. REPORT OF CASE White man aged 34. History of intermittent discharge from right ear since childhood. Mastoiditis and facial paralysis (right side), relieved by simple mastoidectomy; followed by recurrent paroxysms of meningitis. Persistence of symptoms, necessitating radical mastoidectomy. Signs of petrositis and dysfunction of ipsilateral cerebellar hemisphere. No cerebellar lesion disclosed by exploratory craniotomy. Focal meningitic complications and intramedullary abscess revealed at necropsy. Anamnesis. —The patient first applied for treatment on Sept. 16, 1942 because of pain in the right ear. He told us that the ear had been draining intermittently since early childhood. He recalled having a fracture of the skull at the age of 10 years, but apparently there were no serious sequelae.