Mastoid antrum

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Mastoid antrum

The mastoid antrum is a cavity in the mastoid process of the temporal bone of the skull. It is an important structure in the anatomy of the ear and is involved in the middle ear's function.

Anatomy

The mastoid antrum is located posterior to the tympanic cavity and is connected to it via the aditus ad antrum. It is lined with a mucous membrane that is continuous with the lining of the middle ear. The mastoid antrum communicates with the mastoid air cells, which are a collection of air-filled spaces within the mastoid process.

Function

The primary function of the mastoid antrum is to act as a reservoir for air, which helps to maintain the pressure equilibrium within the middle ear. This is essential for proper hearing function. The mastoid antrum also plays a role in the drainage of the middle ear, helping to prevent infections.

Clinical Significance

Inflammation or infection of the mastoid antrum can lead to a condition known as mastoiditis. This condition can result from untreated or severe otitis media and can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, and fever. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Surgical Considerations

In some cases, surgical procedures such as mastoidectomy may be performed to remove infected mastoid air cells and to drain the mastoid antrum. This is often done to treat chronic infections or complications arising from mastoiditis.

Related Structures

• Temporal bone
• Middle ear
• Tympanic cavity
• Mastoid process
• Mastoid air cells
• Aditus ad antrum

See Also

• Otitis media
• Mastoiditis
• Mastoidectomy