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Description of Asymmetric Mastoid Pneumatization

The mastoid is a protrusion of the temporal bone at the rear of the ear canal. It is porous, containing many air-filled cavities. Pneumatization is the name given to the process of air cavity formation in the bone.

  1. Pneumatization

    • Air cavities in the mastoid are visible within six months of birth. Mastoid pneumatization continues until physical maturity (about 20 years of age) and then ceases. In asymmetric mastoid pneumatization, the air cavities in the mastoid bone are considered abnormal because there are too few or too many of them; or they are too large, too small or entirely missing.

    Causes

    • It has been suggested that asymmetric mastoid pneumatization can be triggered in more than one manner. The presence of the condition in neonates indicates that some cases are congenital in origin. However, the condition can appear later in life as well, which indicates that viral or bacterial infections of the middle ear may also be a cause. Trauma to the temporal bone may also cause asymmetric pneumatization in the mastoid.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of asymmetric mastoid pneumatization include vertigo, headaches, earaches and hearing loss.

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