The constellation of symptoms was first described as a consequence of severe, advanced ear infection which has spread to a central portion of the temporal bone of the skull. This type of presentation was common prior to development of antibiotic treatments, and is now a rare complication.[citation needed]
In persons with longstanding ear infection and typical symptoms, medical imaging such as CT or MRI of the head may show changes that confirm disease involvement of the petrous apex of temporal bone.[citation needed]
Treatment
The medical treatment is done with antibiotics: ceftriaxone plus metronidazole (which covers anaerobic bacteria). Depending on the duration of the infection, the severity, and which complications have arisen, it may also be necessary to perform surgery. Due to critical structures that block surgical access, it is not possible to completely remove the petrous apex. The focus is therefore on providing adequate drainage of the affected air cells.[5]
^Devic M, Boucher M, Raveau M (April 1966). "[Some cases of Gradenigo-Lannois syndrome]". Journal de Médecine de Lyon. 47 (96): 537–47. PMID4286558.
^Bléry M, Chagnon S, Picard A, Babin C (November 1980). "[Cranial osteitis: a report on four cases, including a Gradenigo-Lannois syndrome (author's transl)]". Journal de Radiologie. 61 (11): 677–81. PMID7452536.