Pott's puffy tumour: the usefulness of MRI in complicated sinusitis

Abstract

The sinuses are common sites of infection in children, and if clinical presentation is delayed, there is a high risk of complications including intracranial spread. We present a case of a 5-year-old boy who presented with non-specific symptoms of sinusitis. He went on to develop osteomyelitis of the frontal bone and a subperiosteal abscess known as Pott's puffy tumour. Whilst computed tomography provides an excellent initial imaging, this case report emphasizes the advantages of magnetic resonance imaging, especially when there is extensive involvement of the sinuses with an absence of ionizing radiation. Prompt surgical treatment is imperative as there is a potential for significant morbidity if not quickly diagnosed and treated.