Internal jugular vein thrombosis associated with acute mastoiditis in a pediatric age

To discuss the clinical aspects and management of internal jugular vein thrombosis associated with acute otitis media. Case reports and review of the literature. University hospital, tertiary referral center. The authors describe two cases of internal jugular vein thrombosis, without sigmoid sinus thrombosis, secondary to acute otomastoiditis. Jugular vein thrombosis was diagnosed in both cases by observation of filling defects of the involved jugular bulb on contrast-enhanced computed tomography and confirmed by conventional magnetic resonance and magnetic resonance venography. Both patients recovered after recanalization of the vessel concomitant to anticoagulation and antibiotic treatment associated with a simple mastoidectomy. Internal jugular vein thrombosis may be a complication of acute otitis media, without involvement of the sigmoid sinus and with a starting point in the jugular bulb. Anticoagulation associated with antibiotic therapy can be considered a safe and effective treatment. Surgery should only be performed to eliminate the source of infection from the middle ear and mastoid.