International Licensing Examination (ILE) Practice Test

What is a potential consequence of untreated mastoiditis?

1. Temporary hearing loss

2. Perforation of the tympanic membrane

3. Chronic middle ear effusion

4. Infection spread to the brain

The correct answer is: Infection spread to the brain

Mastoiditis is an infection of the mastoid process, which is located behind the ear and can occur as a complication of untreated middle ear infections (otitis media). If not adequately treated, this infection can progress and potentially spread beyond the confines of the mastoid bone. One serious consequence of untreated mastoiditis is the risk of the infection spreading to the brain, leading to conditions such as meningitis or brain abscesses. This is particularly alarming because these complications can have severe neurological implications and may be life-threatening. The correct answer highlights the critical nature of early diagnosis and treatment of mastoiditis to prevent such severe outcomes, including the dissemination of infection to the central nervous system. In contrast, while other options reflect some issues that can arise in the context of ear infections or mastoiditis, they do not carry the same level of urgency or grave consequence as the potential spread of infection to the brain.