Bezold Abscess
Bezold’s abscess is a possible consequence of an acute middle ear infection. This very rarely occurring complication is named after its discoverer Friedrich Bezold. An abscess is generally understood to be a purulent encapsulation caused by certain bacteria, the so-called staphylococci.
These pathogens can also be the cause of an acute inflammation of the middle ear. If such an inflammation has occurred, there is a risk that the bacteria will spread even further. Occasionally, they can also reach the mastoid process located near the middle ear.The Processus mastoideus is a bony prominence at the occiput, where the Musculus sternocleidomastoideus is attached.
It has a hollow space which is lined with mucous membrane. This can be colonized by the spreading bacteria and can also become purulent and inflamed. One speaks then of a mastoiditis.
Since the head turner muscle has its point of attachment at this projection, there is a risk that the pus does not only remain in the mastoid process, but breaks through it and spreads further into the sternocleidomastoid muscle. This so-called abscess into the muscle is called a Bezold’s abscess. This becomes noticeable as a painful swelling on the neck.
The skin above the inflammation can also be reddened and overheated. Mastoiditis and Bezold’s abscess, which is accompanied by a penetration of pus into the sternocleidomastoid muscle, must be treated immediately with antibiotics and often with a small operation to prevent the bacteria from spreading, especially in the direction of the brain and meninges. In many cases, as already mentioned, a small operation is also necessary, in which the pus is opened, the pus is drained and the adjacent structures, such as the bone, are relieved and subsequently also cleaned.
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