A case of an epidural abscess associated with acute SATMJ caused by otitis media

Septic arthritis of the temporomandibular joint (SATMJ) is a rare disease that can lead to life-threatening complications if diagnosed or treated late. We describe a patient who developed an epidural abscess associated with acute SATMJ caused by otitis media. The patient was a 32-year-old female who was referred to our hospital after visiting her local otolaryngologist with the chief complaints of pain in the front of her right ear, swelling, and trismus. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed the presence of an abscess cavity that extended from the right temporomandibular joint to the epidural space. The patient was diagnosed with right-sided acute SATMJ and an epidural abscess, and was admitted for treatment. Pus was removed from the articular cavity of the temporomandibular joint by needle aspiration. Arthrocentesis was performed and antibiotics were administered. The treatment was effective and the patient was followed up for four months, recovering well without developing symptoms in the temporomandibular joint, or neurological complications. It is important to identify systemic symptoms, including in adjacent regions, for early diagnosis and treatment in patients who present with inflammatory disorders of the head and neck region.