What is the primary medical treatment for mastoiditis?

Mastoiditis is an infection of the mastoid bone, typically a complication of untreated or inadequately treated otitis media (middle ear infection). The primary medical treatment for mastoiditis involves the use of systemic antibiotics, as this condition reflects a more serious and deep-seated infection that cannot be effectively managed with topical treatments alone.

Systemic antibiotics work throughout the body to target the infection caused by bacteria in the mastoid area, effectively reducing inflammation and preventing further complications. This approach is necessary because mastoiditis can lead to severe outcomes, including hearing loss or the spread of infection to surrounding structures, particularly if not addressed with appropriate systemic therapy.

Other treatment options, such as topical antibiotics, oral steroids, and antihistamines, do not adequately address the underlying infection in mastoiditis, which is why they are not considered primary treatments for this condition.