Liam Masterson1, Paul Leong. 1. ENT Department, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Colney Lane, Norwich, NR4 7UY, UK. lmm398@doctors.org.uk
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Osteomyelitis of the frontal bone, otherwise known as Pott's puffy tumour, is a rare complication of frontal sinusitis. The aim of this paper is to illustrate this condition as a separate entity to other causes of supraorbital swelling and describe the various types of management. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 56-year-old man who was seen in the emergency department with a painful forehead swelling. The maxillofacial surgical team on call arranged for incision and drainage of what was thought to be a sebaceous cyst. Despite oral antibiotic treatment, a continuing discharge was evident after a period of 3/52. An eventual diagnosis was made of frontocutaneous fistula secondary to Pott's puffy tumour. CONCLUSION: Frontal sinus disease may result in potentially dangerous complications. Although Pott's puffy tumour is a rare complication in this post-antibiotic era, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment will improve clinical outcome and reduce the possibility of intracerebral complications.
BACKGROUND:Osteomyelitis of the frontal bone, otherwise known as Pott's puffy tumour, is a rare complication of frontal sinusitis. The aim of this paper is to illustrate this condition as a separate entity to other causes of supraorbital swelling and describe the various types of management. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 56-year-old man who was seen in the emergency department with a painful forehead swelling. The maxillofacial surgical team on call arranged for incision and drainage of what was thought to be a sebaceous cyst. Despite oral antibiotic treatment, a continuing discharge was evident after a period of 3/52. An eventual diagnosis was made of frontocutaneous fistula secondary to Pott's puffy tumour. CONCLUSION:Frontal sinus disease may result in potentially dangerous complications. Although Pott's puffy tumour is a rare complication in this post-antibiotic era, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment will improve clinical outcome and reduce the possibility of intracerebral complications.