Mastoid

Mastoid

The mastoid is a part of the temporal bone located in the human skull. It is located behind the ear and is easily palpable in humans. The mastoid is filled with air cells that are connected to the middle ear, which is why it is also known as the mastoid process.

Anatomy

The mastoid is part of the temporal bone, which is one of the two bones that form the sides and base of the skull. The mastoid process is a conical prominence projecting from the undersurface of the mastoid portion of the temporal bone. It is located just behind the external ear. The size and form of the mastoid process varies somewhat; it is larger in men than in women and its size is also influenced by the amount of its pneumatization.

Function

The mastoid process serves for the attachment of certain muscles (sternocleidomastoid, splenius capitis, and longissimus capitis) and maintains the open connection between the middle ear and the environment, which is known as mastoid air cells. These air cells are connected to the middle ear via the mastoid antrum. This connection allows the pressure in the middle ear to equalize with the atmospheric pressure.

Clinical significance

Infections in the middle ear can spread to the mastoid air cells, a condition known as mastoiditis. This can lead to the destruction of the bony air cells, resulting in a serious infection that can spread to the brain if not treated promptly. Symptoms of mastoiditis include pain, swelling, and redness over the area of the mastoid process. The treatment for mastoiditis typically involves antibiotics and sometimes surgery.

See also

• Temporal bone
• Middle ear
• Mastoiditis

References

Mastoid Resources
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