Coexisting otitis and mastoiditis increase the risk of what complication?

The presence of both otitis media and mastoiditis significantly raises the risk of developing an intracranial abscess. This complication arises because the infection can extend beyond the confines of the middle ear and mastoid process into the adjacent structures, including the brain. The close anatomical relationship between these areas means that pathogens can spread through vascular or direct routes, leading to serious complications like abscess formation.

Furthermore, the inflammation and infection associated with mastoiditis can compromise adjacent anatomical structures, increasing the likelihood of neurologic involvement. Patients with mastoiditis can also have hematogenous spread of infection, which can result in brain abscesses or other intracranial complications if not appropriately managed.

While hearing loss, facial paralysis, and chronic sinusitis can occur due to otitis and mastoiditis, the immediate concern regarding a significant life-threatening complication points more towards the risk of intracranial infections, making it a critical factor in the management and treatment of these patients.