High-resolution Computed Tomography Study of Temporal Bone Pathologies

Introduction: The application of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in the temporal bone study has allowed the detailed assessment of complex bony anatomy and pathology. HRCT temporal bone accurately depicts bony erosion or destruction and associated soft tissue pathology. The purpose of this study is to determine the role and efficacy of HRCT temporal bone in evaluation of congenital, inflammatory, traumatic, and neoplastic conditions. This was the cross-sectional prospective study of 11/2 year's duration. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the congenital, inflammatory, traumatic, and neoplastic conditions of the temporal bone with the help of HRCT. Materials and Methods: This was cross-sectional prospective study conducted at RKDF Medical College between December 2014 to March 2016. A total of 120 patients of varied age group presenting with symptoms and signs of temporal bone pathologies were included in the study. Imaging diagnosis was confirmed either by histopathology or follow-up and response to treatment. Results: In our study, temporal bone pathologies were more common in male (66.66%) compare to female population (33.33%). The most common age group affected by the temporal bone pathologies was 11-20 years age group (38.33%) and least common age group was more than 60 years (<4%). The most common temporal bone pathologies in our study were inflammatory (50%) followed by traumatic (11.66), benign neoplasm (10%), congenital (6.66), and malignant neoplasm (5%). Approximately, 16.66% cases of HRCT temporal bone study revealed no abnormality. Most common inflammatory pathology in our study was cholesteatoma (73.3%) followed by otomastoiditis/otitis externa constitute (26.66%). Out of 14 traumatic cases of temporal bone, 57.14% cases were associated with intracranial injuries in our study. Out of 18 cases of neoplastic pathology, 66.66% of cases were benign and 33.33% were malignant etiology. Conclusion: HRCT scan of temporal bone depicts complex bony details and associated soft tissue pathologies accurately. Due to various limitations of clinical examination and radiography, HRCT temporal bone is single most important imaging tool for pre-operative evaluation and management of various pathologies of the temporal bone.