Vol. 1, Issue 4 (2015)

Background and Objectives: Chronic Otitis Media (COM) is a persistent inflammation of the middle ear that may influence the mineralization of temporal bone structures. Reduced bone density in the middle ear and surrounding temporal bone can complicate surgical outcomes and hearing restoration procedures. This study aimed to evaluate bone density in patients with chronic otitis media and compare it with healthy controls to assess potential risk factors for bone demineralization. Material and Methods: A total of 60 participants were included in this case-control study: 30 patients diagnosed with chronic otitis media (study group) and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals (control group). All participants underwent high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans of the temporal bone. Bone density measurements (Hounsfield Units, HU) were obtained from the mastoid, ossicles, and temporal squama using standardized imaging protocols. Demographic data, disease duration, and clinical findings were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed to compare bone density between COM patients and controls and to evaluate associations with disease characteristics. Results: The mean bone density of the temporal bone in COM patients was significantly lower (752 ± 85 HU) compared to controls (865 ± 78 HU; p<0.001). Mastoid bone density was particularly reduced in patients with long-standing disease (>5 years) and in those with cholesteatoma (p<0.01). No significant difference was observed in ossicular bone density between cases and controls. Prolonged duration of disease and recurrent infections were identified as independent risk factors for reduced bone density in the temporal bone. Conclusion: Patients with chronic otitis media exhibit significantly reduced temporal bone density, especially in cases with long-standing disease or cholesteatoma. Assessment of bone density using HRCT can aid in surgical planning and risk stratification for hearing restoration procedures. Early management of COM may help prevent progressive bone demineralization.