Mastoiditis is most often caused by a middle ear infection (acute otitis media). The infection may spread from the ear to the mastoid bone. The bone has a honeycomb-like structure that fills with infected material and may break down. The condition is most common in children.

How do you get mastoiditis?

Mastoiditis can develop if the mastoid cells become infected or inflamed, often following a 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.

Where is mastoiditis in adults?

Mastoiditis in adults and children is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. Mastoiditis (acute and chronic) is a bacterial infection of the mastoid cells in the mastoid bone, which is located just behind the ear. Mastoiditis can become serious if the infection spreads outside the mastoid bone.