In the context of otitis media and mastoiditis, what complication is most likely to develop?

In the context of otitis media and mastoiditis, the most likely complication that can develop is a temporal brain abscess. This is due to the proximity of the middle ear and mastoid air cells to the brain. When an infection in the middle ear (otitis media) or the mastoid process (mastoiditis) is severe, it can extend into the adjacent structures, including the dura mater, and potentially lead to an abscess in the temporal lobe.

The development of a brain abscess is a serious condition that can result from an untreated or improperly managed ear infection. It necessitates immediate medical intervention, often requiring both antibiotic treatment and possibly surgical drainage.

While hearing loss is a common concern associated with chronic otitis media, it is less acute as a complication compared to a brain abscess, which presents a significant and immediate risk to health. Other options like neck stiffness might suggest meningitis but are not direct complications of otitis media or mastoiditis themselves. Chronic ear infections can occur, but they are not classified as an acute complication of mastoiditis leading to more severe issues like a brain abscess.