Causes ofmastoiditis

The mastoid bone has a honeycomb-like structure that contains air spaces called mastoid cells.

Mastoiditis can develop if the mastoid cells become infected or inflamed, often followinga persistent middle ear infection (otitis media) .

Cholesteatoma can also cause mastoiditis. This is an abnormal collection of skin cells inside the ear which may prevent the ear draining properly, leading to infection.

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Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018