Clival Osteomyelitis Presenting as a Skull Base Mass

Abstract

Central skull base osteomyelitis is a rare, but potentially life-threatening disease entity often lacking otologic symptoms or external auditory canal pathology. We present a case of a man in his 70s who had developed cranial nerve deficits with radiographic evidence that was consistent with a tumor due to this uncommon entity. The radiologic findings and our experience are discussed to increase awareness in the otolaryngology community.

Keywords

clival osteomyelitis - skull base mass - skull base osteomyelitis - central skull base osteomyelitis

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